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Raja Ram Mohan Roy Jayanti is observed annually on 22nd May to celebrate the birth anniversary of one of India’s most influential social reformers. Recognized as the Father of the Bengal Renaissance, Roy laid the foundation for several progressive changes in Indian society, particularly in the realms of education, religion, and women’s rights. His efforts challenged deep-rooted social customs and helped usher in a new era of rational thought and reform.
Raja Ram Mohan Roy Jayanti 2025
The 2025 edition of Raja Ram Mohan Roy Jayanti will be commemorated on 22nd May. It marks the 253rd birth anniversary of this visionary reformer, whose legacy continues to shape modern Indian thought and values.
About Raja Ram Mohan Roy
Born on 22nd May 1772 in Radhanagar (present-day West Bengal), Raja Ram Mohan Roy was a scholar, social thinker, and reformer of the 19th century. His influence during the Bengal Renaissance helped redefine Indian society. Often called the Father of Modern India, he worked to eliminate harmful social practices and promoted progressive ideas around education, religion, and women's empowerment.
Early Life And Education
Ram Mohan Roy came from a well-established Brahmin family. His father, Ramkanta Roy, worked as a revenue officer, and his mother, Tarinidevi, held traditional values. From a young age, he displayed a keen interest in philosophy and theology.
He received his early education in Persian and Arabic in Patna and later studied Sanskrit in Varanasi. His wide-ranging studies exposed him to Islamic texts, Greek philosophy, the Vedas, and the Upanishads. He was also fluent in English, Bengali, and Hindi.
Religious Beliefs And Reform Movements
Roy was a strong proponent of monotheism and firmly opposed idol worship. He initially formed the Atmiya Sabha in 1815 to promote rational spiritual beliefs. Later, he established the Brahmo Samaj in 1828, which evolved into a major reformist religious movement advocating ethical living and social justice.
He also studied Christian theology, learning Hebrew and Greek to understand the Bible. His 1820 publication, Precepts of Jesus, focused on the moral values in Christian teachings over miracles and rituals.
Campaign Against Sati And Social Reforms
Among his most impactful contributions was his relentless fight against the Sati system, where widows were forced to self-immolate on their husbands’ funeral pyres. Roy’s advocacy led to the banning of Sati in 1829 under Governor-General Lord William Bentinck.
He also opposed:
Child marriage
Polygamy
Caste-based discrimination
Denial of women’s property rights
He advocated for widow remarriage, girls' education, and equal rights for women.
Educational Contributions
In 1822, Roy established the Anglo-Hindu School to provide a curriculum blending Indian traditions with Western scientific learning. In 1826, he founded Vedanta College, which offered teachings in both Indian philosophy and modern sciences.
He also opposed the creation of a purely Sanskrit-based college by the British in 1823, emphasizing the need for a modern and scientific education system to prepare Indian youth for future challenges.
Political Views And Journalism
Raja Ram Mohan Roy was a pioneer of free speech in India. In 1823, when the British introduced press restrictions, he openly criticized censorship and supported the freedom of expression.
He founded some of the earliest Indian newspapers, which he used to raise awareness on social, political, and economic issues. He also questioned the British administration’s unjust policies, especially those related to revenue collection and judicial governance.
Visit To England And Final Days
In 1829, Roy travelled to England as a representative of Mughal Emperor Akbar II, who gave him the honorary title of “Raja.” While in England, he was welcomed by reformist groups, especially Unitarians.
Unfortunately, he passed away from meningitis on 27th September 1833 in Bristol, where his tomb still stands as a tribute to his international legacy.
Family Life
Raja Ram Mohan Roy had three wives during his lifetime. His first wife died young. His second wife, who gave birth to two sons – Radhaprasad and Ramaprasad passed away in 1824. His third wife survived him.
Major Works And Writings
Roy was a prolific thinker and writer. Some of his notable publications include:
Tuhfat-al-Muwahhiddin (A Gift to Monotheists)
Precepts of Jesus
Translations of the Vedas and Upanishads
Essays on social justice, women's rights, and religious reform
Legacy Of Raja Ram Mohan Roy
Raja Ram Mohan Roy is remembered as:
The Father of Indian Renaissance
The Father of Modern India
A trailblazer of social justice and progressive reform
His revolutionary thinking influenced future reformers like Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, Swami Vivekananda, and Mahatma Gandhi. Roy’s fearless advocacy continues to inspire generations committed to equality, education, and empowerment.
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