Ram Mohan Roy was born on May 22, 1774, in Radhanagar, Bengal, India. He was born into a wealthy and influential Brahmin family, and received a traditional education in Sanskrit and Vedas. Despite his privileged upbringing, he was deeply troubled by the social and religious injustices he saw around him.
At the age of 15, Roy began working as a private clerk for the East India Company's Writing Service. This experience gave him insight into the workings of the British colonial government, and fueled his desire to bring about social and religious reform in India.
In 1801, Roy founded the newspaper "Sambad Kaumudi," one of India's earliest newspapers. Through the newspaper, he challenged traditional Hindu culture and customs, and advocated for social and religious reforms. His fearless journalism made him a prominent figure in Indian society.
In 1828, Roy founded the Brahmo Samaj, a Hindu reformist sect that aimed to reform and purify Hinduism. The Brahmo Samaj rejected idol worship, caste distinctions, and superstitions, and emphasized the importance of reason and morality in religion. Roy's teachings and philosophies had a profound impact on the Indian society.
Ram Mohan Roy was married three times, but it was his marriage to Devi Uma that lasted until his death. Devi Uma supported his reformist ideas and shared his vision for a more just and equal society. Together, they worked tirelessly to bring about social change in India.
In addition to his work as a journalist and religious leader, Roy also founded educational institutions to promote modern education in India. In 1822, he established the Anglo-Hindu School, and in 1826, he founded the Vedanta College. These institutions played a significant role in shaping the intellectual landscape of India.
Ram Mohan Roy is often referred to as "The Father of Modern India" for his pioneering work in social and religious reform. His ideas laid the foundation for the Indian Renaissance and inspired generations of Indians to strive for a more just and equal society. His legacy continues to inspire social reformers and activists in India and around the world.
Another influential social reformer in India was Mother Teresa. Though she worked in a different time and context, Mother Teresa shared Roy's commitment to serving the marginalized and oppressed. Both Roy and Mother Teresa remain iconic figures in the history of India's social reform movements.