Answer:

Explanation:
There are several reasons that highlight Ishwarchandra Vidyasagar's support for widow remarriage and contradict the claim that he strongly criticised it. These reasons include:
1. Pioneer of social reform: Ishwarchandra Vidyasagar was one of the key figures in the Bengal Renaissance, a period of social and cultural reform in 19th-century Bengal. He actively supported various progressive causes, including widow remarriage.
2. Advocacy for legalizing widow remarriage: Vidyasagar played a significant role in advocating for the legalization of widow remarriage through the Widow Remarriage Act of 1856. This act allowed Hindu widows to remarry, challenging the prevailing social norms.
3. Educational initiatives for widows: Vidyasagar established the first widow remarriage association in Calcutta in 1855, aiming to provide education and support to widows and encourage their remarriage. He believed in empowering widows through education and social acceptance.
4. Writing in support of widow remarriage: Vidyasagar wrote extensively on the importance of widow remarriage and the need to eradicate social stigma associated with it. His works, such as "Barna Parichay" and "Bidhaba Bibaha," promoted widow remarriage as a means to uplift widows and provide them with a chance at a fulfilling life.
5. Social impact: Vidyasagar's efforts towards widow remarriage had a significant social impact. His advocacy and initiatives helped change societal attitudes and gradually led to the acceptance of widow remarriage as a legitimate practice.
In conclusion, Ishwarchandra Vidyasagar actively supported widow remarriage through his writings, advocacy, and establishment of institutions. Therefore, the statement that he strongly criticised widow remarriage is false.

Ishwarchandra Vidyasagar and Widow Remarriage

Ishwarchandra Vidyasagar was a social reformer, philosopher, and scholar who lived during the 19th century in India. He played a significant role in advocating for social reforms, particularly for the rights and welfare of women. However, it is incorrect to state that he strongly criticized widow remarriage. In fact, Vidyasagar was a strong advocate for the remarriage of widows and worked tirelessly to eradicate the social stigma and discrimination faced by widows in Indian society.

Vidyasagar's Views on Widow Remarriage

1. Progressive Outlook: Vidyasagar was a progressive thinker who believed in the equality and empowerment of women. He strongly believed that widows deserved a chance to remarry and lead a fulfilling life after the death of their husbands.

2. Legal Reforms: In 1856, Vidyasagar played a pivotal role in passing the Widow Remarriage Act, which allowed Hindu widows to remarry. This act was a landmark achievement in the fight against social prejudices and discrimination faced by widows.

3. Educational Initiatives: Vidyasagar recognized the importance of education in empowering women. He established schools for girls and stressed the significance of education in improving their social status and enabling them to make informed choices, including widow remarriage.

Vidyasagar's Contributions to Women's Empowerment

1. Widow Remarriage: Vidyasagar's efforts to legalize widow remarriage were groundbreaking. He believed that denying widows the right to remarry was a form of social injustice and worked tirelessly to eradicate this practice.

2. Women's Education: Vidyasagar was a strong advocate for women's education. He established schools for girls and fought against societal norms that restricted girls' access to education. He believed that education would empower women and enable them to lead independent lives.

3. Opposition to Child Marriage: Vidyasagar vehemently opposed child marriage and worked to raise awareness about its detrimental effects on young girls. He campaigned for raising the legal age for marriage to protect girls from early marriages and its associated consequences.

Conclusion

Contrary to the statement, Ishwarchandra Vidyasagar strongly supported widow remarriage. He fought against prevailing societal norms and worked diligently to bring about legal reforms and empower women. His efforts played a significant role in improving the status and rights of widows in Indian society.