Which of the following statements about the social base of the Arya Sa...
- Arya Samaj is an Indian Hindu reform movement that promotes values and practices based on the belief in the infallible authority of the Vedas.
- The Samaj was founded by the Sannyasi Dayanand Saraswati on 7 April 1875. It was located mainly in Punjab and western Uttar Pradesh.
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Which of the following statements about the social base of the Arya Sa...
The correct answer is option 'A': 1 and 2 only.
Here's a detailed explanation:
1. Geographical Location:
The social base of the Arya Samaj was primarily located in Punjab and western Uttar Pradesh. These regions had a significant presence of Arya Samaj followers and were considered strongholds of the movement. The Arya Samaj gained popularity in these areas due to its emphasis on Vedic rituals, reform, and revival of Hinduism.
2. Composition of the Social Base:
The social base of the Arya Samaj mainly comprised the trading castes. The movement attracted merchants, traders, and business communities who were looking for a reformist and nationalist Hindu movement. The Arya Samaj's emphasis on economic development, self-reliance, and education appealed to these groups.
3. Comparison with the Brahmo Samaj:
The third statement, which states that the social base of the Arya Samaj was much more limited than that of the Brahmo Samaj, is incorrect. The Arya Samaj had a wider social base compared to the Brahmo Samaj. The Brahmo Samaj, founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy, was predominantly based in Bengal and primarily attracted the educated middle class and upper-caste Hindus. In contrast, the Arya Samaj had a broader appeal, attracting not only the educated middle class but also the trading castes and rural communities in Punjab and western Uttar Pradesh.
The Arya Samaj played a significant role in the social and religious reforms of the late 19th and early 20th centuries in India. It aimed to purify Hinduism, promote Vedic rituals, eradicate social evils, and emphasize education and self-reliance. The movement had a strong influence on the Indian nationalist movement and contributed to the development of a revitalized Hindu identity.
In summary, the correct statements about the social base of the Arya Samaj in British India are that it was mainly located in Punjab and western Uttar Pradesh and it mainly comprised the trading castes. The statement that it was much more limited than that of the Brahmo Samaj is incorrect.