Swami Shraddhanand was a prominent Indian freedom fighter and social reformer who lived from 22 February 1856 – 23 December 1926. He was born Munshi Ram Vijayvargiya in the village of Talwan in Punjab, India, and later changed his name to Shraddhanand Saraswati after becoming a sannyasi (a Hindu ascetic who renounces worldly pleasures) in 1902. He is known for his immense contribution to India’s freedom struggle, as well as his tireless efforts to uplift the weaker sections of society.
Early Life and Education
Swami Shraddhanand was born in a conservative Hindu family and was named Munshi Ram Vij at birth. He received his early education in the village school and later moved to Lahore for higher studies. In Lahore, he learned Persian, Urdu, English, and Sanskrit and became proficient in these languages. He was deeply influenced by the teachings of Swami Dayanand Saraswati, the founder of the Arya Samaj, and became a follower of his philosophy.
Contributions of Swami Shraddhanand to Indian Society
Swami Shraddhanand dedicated his life to the service of the nation and worked for the upliftment of the weaker sections of society. He started his career as a teacher and later became the principal of the Gurukul Kangri University in Haridwar. He was a prolific writer and wrote extensively on a variety of subjects, including religion, education, and social reform. He founded the Punjab National Bank in 1894 to provide financial assistance to farmers and small traders.
Swami Shraddhanand was also a staunch supporter of the Swadeshi movement and actively participated in the freedom struggle. He was a vocal critic of British colonial rule and advocated for the boycott of British goods. He believed in the concept of self-reliance and encouraged the use of indigenous products.
The Arya Samaj and Swami Shraddhanand’s Role in It
The Arya Samaj is a Hindu reform movement founded by Swami Dayanand Saraswati in 1875. The movement aimed to reform Hinduism and bring back the purity of the Vedic religion. Swami Shraddhanand was a devoted follower of Swami Dayanand and played an important role in the spread of the Arya Samaj philosophy.
Swami Shraddhanand founded several schools and colleges based on the principles of the Arya Samaj. He believed in the power of education to bring about social change and worked tirelessly to promote education among the masses. He also fought against the caste system and advocated for the equality of all castes and communities.
Swami Shraddhanand’s tireless efforts for the freedom struggle and his contribution to the education system in India earned him the title of Mahatma. He was a true patriot and a great humanist who believed in the power of education.
Social Reforms
Apart from his involvement in the freedom struggle, Swami Shraddhanand was also a social reformer who worked tirelessly to uplift the weaker sections of society. He focused on issues such as education, untouchability, and women’s rights.
One of his most significant contributions was the establishment of Gurukul Kangri University in Haridwar in 1902. The university aimed to promote Vedic education and provide free education to poor and orphaned children. It became one of the most prestigious educational institutions in India and continues to operate today.
Swami Shraddhanand was also a vocal advocate of the abolition of untouchability and worked to promote the rights of Dalits (formerly known as “untouchables”) in Indian society. He established the Anti-Untouchability League in 1920, which aimed to eradicate untouchability and caste-based discrimination.
Legacy and Impact
Swami Shraddhanand’s contributions to India’s freedom struggle and social reforms were immense, and his legacy continues to inspire people today. He was a true champion of social justice and worked tirelessly to uplift the weaker sections of society.
His legacy also includes the establishment of Gurukul Kangri University and his efforts to promote Vedic education.
