Women's Liberation: The Arya Samaj Movement in India

Book Details

• Author: Sangeeta Sharma

• Publisher: Rawat Publications

• Language: English

• Edition: 2011

• ISBN: 8131603768

• Pages: 208

• Cover: Hardcover

• Package Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.6 x 0.1 inches

About the Book

Women’s Liberation and Arya Samaj: The Contribution of Swami Dayanand Saraswati provides an insightful examination of the Arya Samaj’s transformative role in India’s social reform movement, particularly with respect to women’s rights and liberation. This study highlights the unique, comprehensive, and structured program initiated by Swami Dayanand Saraswati and the Arya Samaj to address women's issues, a movement that distinguished itself from earlier and contemporary efforts in the country.

The Arya Samaj gave crucial importance to women's issues, a focus that was unprecedented in the social reform movements of the time. Amidst the growing focus on India's nationalist struggle against British colonialism, the Arya Samaj brought the issue of women's rights to the forefront. This book highlights how the movement confronted social evils, such as superstition and the caste system, advocated for women's education, fought for the betterment of widows, and promoted the liberalization of marriage practices.

By framing the Arya Samaj’s efforts within the context of their deep respect for ancient traditions, the author asserts that their progressive stance on women's issues was driven by a sincere commitment to gender equality and social resurgence. Through its groundbreaking campaigns, particularly in women's education and widow rehabilitation, the Arya Samaj made a lasting impact on the status of women in early 20th-century India.

Key Topics Covered:

• Women’s Liberation in India through Arya Samaj

• Swami Dayanand Saraswati’s Contribution to Social Reform

• Arya Samaj’s Fight Against Caste System and Superstition

• Women’s Education and Empowerment

• Widow Rehabilitation and Marriage Liberalization

• Arya Samaj’s Gender Equality Movement

About the Author
Sangeeta Sharma is an Assistant Professor in the Department of History and Indian Culture at the University of Rajasthan. Previously, she served as a Research Officer at the Centre for Women’s Studies, University of Rajasthan. Sharma is the author of several books and research papers published in reputed journals, with a primary focus on women's studies and social reform movements.