Raja Rammohan Roy
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Raja Rammohan Roy (1772–1833) is associated with the beginnings of the modern reform movement in India.
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He advocated:
- monotheism;
- rationalism;
- human dignity;
- social equality;
- modern education.
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He founded the Atmiya Sabha in 1815, which provided an early platform for religious and social discussion.
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He founded the Brahmo Sabha in 1828, which later developed into the Brahmo Samaj.
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His reform programme combined reason, ethical religion and social reform.
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He strongly opposed sati and campaigned for its abolition through scriptural arguments, public advocacy and petitions.
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His campaign contributed to Regulation XVII of 1829, which abolished sati in the Bengal Presidency.
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He supported women's rights, female education and widow remarriage.
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He advocated Western scientific and modern education while retaining a critical engagement with Indian intellectual traditions.
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He used the press extensively for social and political communication.
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Important publications associated with him included Sambad Kaumudi and Mirat-ul-Akbar.
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He travelled to England in 1830 as an emissary of the Mughal emperor and died at Bristol in 1833.