Question

What social ideas did Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar support?

Answer 1

Hint: Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar was a renowned Indian educator and social reformer. He was born on 26th September 1820. He made a significant effort to modernize the Bengali prose. The father of Bengali prose’ is referred to as Vidyasagar.

Complete answer: Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar is known for working for the upliftment of women. He campaigned for Hindu widow remarriage and despite facing extreme opposition he petitioned in the Legislative Council. Finally, the Hindu Widow Remarriage Act was passed in 1826 by Lord Dalhousie. Ishwar Chandra was given the title of Vidyasagar by the Sanskrit College in Calcutta. The title Vidyasagar means (Vidya means Knowledge and Sagar means ocean) Ocean of knowledge. His greatest contribution is the book called ‘Bornoporichoy’.
Ishwar Chandra worked for the upliftment of women’s status all over India, especially in Bengal. He wanted to transform society from within. In Hindu society, widows had to shave their heads and strip themselves from all luxuries and worldly pleasures. They were constantly humiliated and not allowed to take part in any social gathering. They led a pathetic life. He vehemently worked to improve the status of wisdom in society and finally, the Hindu widow remarriage was passed. Vidyasagar also worked towards spreading education. He took out education from the privilege of the upper class and promoted it among everyone. He did not want education to be a privilege which only the upper class could enjoy.

Note: The contribution of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar in the area of social reform is unforgettable. He worked for the advancement of women in order to prevent them from exploitation by patriarchy. He worked towards eliminating orthodox elements from society. Vidyasagar was the first person to introduce the concept of admission fee and tuition fee.