Social Reformers — Set 1

Correct Answer: C. Raja Ram Mohan Roy

Raja Ram Mohan Roy campaigned against social evils like Sati and child marriage. He founded the Brahmo Samaj in 1828 to promote monotheism and rationalism. His efforts led to the formal abolition of Sati in 1829.

Correct Answer: D. Jyotirao Phule

Jyotirao Phule formed the Satyashodhak Samaj in 1873 to focus on the education of underprivileged groups. He was a strong advocate for women's education and founded one of the first schools for girls in Pune. He is often honored with the title 'Mahatma' for his contributions.

Correct Answer: C. E.V. Ramasamy

E.V. Ramasamy, popularly known as Periyar, started this movement in Tamil Nadu. It sought to eliminate the influence of Brahminical dominance and caste-based discrimination. He promoted rationalism and gender equality as core principles for social progress.

Correct Answer: C. Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar

Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar worked tirelessly to challenge the social stigma surrounding widowhood. He used ancient scriptures to prove that widow remarriage was sanctioned by religious law. His persistence resulted in the legal validation of such marriages under British administration.

Correct Answer: D. Dayanand Saraswati

Dayanand Saraswati established the Arya Samaj in 1875 to reform Hinduism by returning to Vedic teachings. He rejected idol worship and supported the equal rights of men and women to study scriptures. He also authored the famous book 'Satyarth Prakash'.

Correct Answer: C. Vinoba Bhave

Vinoba Bhave began the Bhoodan Movement in 1951 at Pochampally to address land inequality peacefully. He traveled across India on foot, asking landowners to give a portion of their land to the poor. He was the first recipient of the international Ramon Magsaysay Award.

Correct Answer: D. Sree Narayana Guru

Sree Narayana Guru led a reform movement against the caste system and promoted spiritual equality. He established several temples that were open to all communities regardless of their social standing. He played a vital role in the social transformation of modern Kerala.

Correct Answer: C. Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Gopal Krishna Gokhale established the society in 1905 to promote social and human development. Members were required to take a vow of poverty and work for the welfare of underprivileged sections. He was also considered a political mentor to Mahatma Gandhi.

Correct Answer: D. Henry Vivian Derozio

Henry Vivian Derozio was a teacher at Hindu College who inspired his students to question authority and tradition. His followers, known as Derozians, campaigned for women's rights and freedom of the press. He is often considered the first nationalist poet of modern India.

Correct Answer: C. Atmaram Pandurang

Atmaram Pandurang established the Prarthana Samaj in 1867 with the help of Keshab Chandra Sen. It focused on social reforms like widow remarriage and the education of women. The movement was later significantly strengthened by the leadership of Justice M.G. Ranade.