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Keshab Chandra Sen
About:
Keshab Chandra Sen was a prominent Indian social and religious reformer born on November 19, 1838, in Kolkata. He played a crucial role in the Brahmo Samaj, a socio-religious movement that sought to reform Hindu society by promoting values such as rationalism, equality, and social justice. His contributions significantly influenced social reforms in the Indian subcontinent during the 19th century.
Contributions to Social Reforms:
- Advocacy for Women’s Rights: Keshab Chandra Sen was a strong advocate for women’s empowerment and education.
- He fought against oppressive customs such as child marriage and was instrumental in promoting widow remarriage and inter-caste marriages.
- Notably, he supported the enactment of the Native Marriage Act of 1872, which legalised widow remarriage and prohibited child marriage, bigamy, and polygamy. This Act was a landmark achievement in advancing women’s rights in India.
- Educational Initiatives: Sen believed that education was vital for women’s emancipation.
- Under his leadership, the Brahma Bandhu Sabha was established in 1863, which focused on improving women’s educational status.
- He also supported the founding of institutions like Bethune College for Ladies and Albert College, which were among the first colleges for women in India. His efforts laid the groundwork for future educational reforms aimed at empowering women.
- Formation of New Religious Ideology: In 1881, Keshab founded the Naba Bidhan (New Dispensation), a new syncretic religion that aimed to merge the best aspects of Christianity with Hinduism.
- This initiative reflected his vision of a universal religion that transcended sectarian divides and promoted interfaith harmony.
- Although this new religion did not gain widespread popularity due to internal conflicts and his declining health, it exemplified his commitment to spiritual reform2.
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- Establishment of Reform Associations: Sen founded the Indian Reform Association in 1870, focusing on various social issues, including female education, temperance, and charity. This association aimed to mobilise public opinion against social evils and promote progressive reforms across Indian society.
- Literary Contributions: Sen was also an influential writer and thinker. He published several journals, such as “Dharma Tattwa” and “Indian Mirror,” where he discussed social issues and promoted his reformist ideas. His writings helped disseminate progressive thoughts throughout India, inspiring many to engage in social reform.
