The Founder of Prarthana Samaj: Atmaram Pandurang

Prarthana Samaj, also known as the "Society of Prayer," was a religious reform movement that emerged in Maharashtra during the 19th century. It aimed to promote monotheism, social equality, and the eradication of caste discrimination. Atmaram Pandurang, a prominent social reformer, was the founder of Prarthana Samaj.

Background:

During the 19th century, India was grappling with various social evils and religious practices that hindered progress and equality. Caste discrimination, idol worship, and rigid religious rituals were prevalent, leading to the marginalization of certain sections of society. It was in this context that reform movements like the Prarthana Samaj emerged.

Formation of Prarthana Samaj:

Atmaram Pandurang, a reformer influenced by the ideas of Swami Dayanand Saraswati, founded Prarthana Samaj in 1867 in Mumbai (then Bombay). He sought to create a platform for people to come together and worship one God, irrespective of caste or religion. The primary objective of the Samaj was to promote monotheism and foster social harmony.

Principles and Objectives:

The Prarthana Samaj had several key principles and objectives:

1. Monotheism: The Samaj emphasized the worship of one God and rejected idol worship and polytheism.

2. Social Equality: It aimed to eradicate caste discrimination and promote social equality among all individuals.

3. Women's Education and Empowerment: The Samaj advocated for the education and empowerment of women, challenging the prevailing patriarchal norms.

4. Interfaith Dialogue: The Samaj encouraged dialogue and cooperation between different religions and aimed to foster religious harmony.

Activities and Impact:

Prarthana Samaj established prayer halls, known as "Prarthana Mandirs," where people would gather for congregational prayers and discourses. They also established schools to promote education, especially for girls, and campaigned against child marriage and social evils.

The Samaj's emphasis on monotheism, social equality, and education resonated with many individuals, and it gained significant popularity in Maharashtra. It played a crucial role in challenging orthodox practices and inspiring social reforms in the region.

Legacy:

The establishment of Prarthana Samaj paved the way for other religious reform movements in India. It inspired leaders like Mahadev Govind Ranade and Gopal Krishna Gokhale, who later became prominent figures in the Indian National Congress and the social reform movements of the time.

Overall, Atmaram Pandurang's vision and efforts in founding Prarthana Samaj had a profound impact on religious and social reforms in Maharashtra and left a lasting legacy in India's history of social and religious reform movements.