The Arya Samaj played a crucial role in India's freedom struggle by strengthening national consciousness and political awakening. Swami Dayanand Saraswati was one of the first to advocate for self-rule (Swaraj) and oppose British domination, laying the ideological foundation for the independence movement. He condemned British oppression in his writings and emphasized that foreign rule would never ensure justice or prosperity for India. Nearly 70 years before Mahatma Gandhi’s Salt Satyagraha, he opposed the British tax on salt and promoted the boycott of foreign goods, a principle later echoed in the Swadeshi movement.
Arya Samaj inspired and mobilized countless revolutionaries who fought for independence. Prominent members, including Lala Lajpat Rai, Bhagat Singh, Ram Prasad Bismil, and Madan Lal Dhingra, actively participated in revolutionary activities such as the Kakori Conspiracy and international efforts like the Ghadar Party. Other notable Arya Samaj freedom fighters include Swami Shraddhanand, who mobilized the masses and was assassinated for his nationalist views; Sachindra Nath Sanyal, co-founder of the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA); Bhai Parmanand, a key figure in the Ghadar movement who faced imprisonment; and Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, whose revolutionary ideology was deeply influenced by Arya Samaj. Pandit Shyamji Krishna Varma, sent to England by Swami Dayanand, laid the groundwork for the international freedom struggle by establishing India House in London. A 1912 survey found that 70 % of those undergoing extreme hardship among jailed freedom fighters were Arya Samajists, reflecting their extensive involvement in the movement.
Swami Dayanand’s disciples, including Bhagat Singh, Sardar Ajit Singh, and Kishan Singh, credited Arya Samaj for shaping their revolutionary ideals. Leaders like Rabindranath Tagore, Sardar Patel, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and even Mahatma Gandhi acknowledged his contributions to India’s independence. Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee noted that if Arya Samaj had not existed, India’s struggle for independence would have taken a different course. The movement’s educational institutions, such as Gurukul Kangri and DAV schools, became hubs of nationalist thought, making leaders who continued the fight against British rule.
Arya Samaj’s integration of religious reform and political activism strengthened nationalist sentiments, reinforcing that true freedom necessitated both political independence and social regeneration. Its legacy remains a testament to the vision of Swami Dayanand Saraswati, whose early call for Swaraj ignited a movement that ultimately led to India’s independence.
1. THE ROLE OF THE ARYA SAMAJ IN INDIA’S STRUGGLE FOR INDEPENDENCE: By Radash Singh (https://vedictemple.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/ROLE-OF-ARYA-SAMAJ-IN-INDAS-INDEPENDENCE.pdf)
2. Major Role of Arya Samaj in Freedom Struggle of Bharat: By Dr. Narendra Kumar and Acharya Dr. Umesh Yadav: Arya Samaj (Vedic Mission) West Midlands
Before India's independence, Hyderabad was a Muslim-ruled princely state under the Nizam, where Hindus faced severe religious restrictions. The Arya Samaj followers were not allowed to propagate Vedic teachings, organize religious gatherings, or hold processions, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among Hindus. In response to these oppressive policies, Arya Samaj launched a Satyagraha (non-violent resistance) against the Nizam’s rule, which ultimately played a crucial role in Hyderabad’s integration into India. Many Arya Samaj activists sacrificed their lives for the cause, and even Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel acknowledged the movement's role in Hyderabad's liberation.
By 1938, the dictatorial mindset of Nizam Osman Ali Khan and his Prime Minister, Akbar Haidari, led to the imposition of several oppressive laws. The Nizam, backed by the British, issued decrees restricting Arya Samaj activities, including a ban on religious gatherings, the recitation of ‘Om’, and even displaying Arya Samaj flags in temples and homes. Yajna was also prohibited, effectively suppressing Hindu religious practices. These restrictions were designed to erase Arya Samaj's influence and establish complete Islamic dominance over the state.
Arya Samaj responded by mobilizing nationwide protests and organizing mass Satyagrahas. Leaders like Mahatma Narayan Swami and students of Arya Gurukul defied the restrictions and entered Hyderabad chanting ‘Om’, leading to their arrests. As the movement intensified, different groups of Arya Samaj activists were sent in waves, with each batch deliberately courting arrest to put pressure on the Nizam. When a second group led by Chand Kiran Sharda entered Hyderabad, they were given harsh prison sentences of 13 months. Despite the repression, Satyagrahis continued their protest, forcing the Nizam’s administration to acknowledge their resistance.
One of the most significant contributors to the movement was Khushal Chand, a journalist and Arya Samaj leader who was vital in mobilizing public opinion. He conducted nationwide awareness campaigns, exposing the Nizam’s religious persecution and seeking support from Bombay-based newspapers. His efforts transformed the struggle from a regional movement to a national issue, gaining support from Hindu organizations, Sikh groups, and even international communities in Burma, Malaya, and Africa. To counteract this, the Nizam bribed newspapers and intellectuals to portray the movement as a Hindu-Muslim conflict, but Arya Samaj’s leaders swiftly refuted these claims through the press.
By August 1939, after facing widespread national and international condemnation, the Nizam was forced to repeal all restrictions imposed on Arya Samaj. He lifted the ban on Vedic rituals, Yajnas, and the display of ‘Om’, officially allowing Arya Samaj to function freely. This victory was a major milestone in Hyderabad’s liberation struggle, weakening the Nizam’s control and laying the way for Hyderabad’s eventual integration into India in 1948.
1. Arya Samaj Movement in the erstwhile Hyderabad State (1938-39): (https://amritmahotsav.nic.in/freedom-movement-detail.htm?19)
2. Arya Samaj ka Itihaas (Dwitiya Bhaag): Indra Vidyavachaspati: Arya Prakashan
The Arya Samaj played a significant role in advancing women's education in India at a time when female literacy was severely restricted. Swami Dayanand Saraswati, strongly emphasized the necessity of education for women, believing that an educated society could not be built without educated women. He drew inspiration from Vedic teachings, which upheld the equal status of men and women in learning and sought to revive this tradition by advocating for female education. He opposed the prevailing belief that women did not require formal education and argued that knowledge was essential for them to lead independent and dignified lives. Through his teachings in Satyarth Prakash, he promoted the idea that both men and women should have equal access to education, as it was fundamental to personal and national progress.
Arya Samaj established a network of educational institutions dedicated to providing quality education to girls. Schools such as Kanya Mahavidyalaya in Jalandhar, Kanya Pathshala in Dehradun, Hans Raj Mahila Mahavidyalaya in Jalandhar, and numerous D.A.V. schools and colleges across India became pioneering centers for female education. These institutions not only provided academic learning in subjects such as Sanskrit, Hindi, English, mathematics, and science but also emphasized vocational training in areas such as sewing, embroidery, and hygiene. The goal was to equip women with both intellectual knowledge and practical skills, ensuring they could contribute effectively to society. The Arya Samaj also made concerted efforts to encourage families to send their daughters to school by raising awareness about the benefits of education through public lectures, campaigns, and publications. Today, Arya Samaj runs over 2500 schools, and more than 400 gurukuls in India and abroad.
Arya Samaj’s emphasis on female education led to a significant shift in social attitudes, making education more accessible and acceptable for women. The movement promoted co-curricular and higher education opportunities, ensuring that women were not just limited to primary education but could also pursue advanced studies. It also encouraged the establishment of hostels for female students, allowing women from different regions to access education without facing social barriers. Today, Arya Samaj’s legacy continues through its numerous educational institutions across India, increasing literacy and empowerment among women. Its pioneering efforts laid the foundation for modern women’s education in India, reinforcing the belief that education is the key to social progress and gender equality.
1. Maharishi Dayanand and Women's Education: Condition and Direction: Pooja Mangal (https://aipublications.com/uploads/issue_files/4IJLLC-FEB20227-Maharishi.pdf)
2. Contribution Of Arya Samaj in Women Education: Manu Sharma and Dr Unnati Chaturvedi (https://www.bibliomed.org/mnsfulltext/218/218-1695579770.pdf?1739275923)
The Arya Samaj strongly supported the widow remarriage movement. Swami Dayanand Saraswati endorsed the remarriage of widows, particularly those whose husbands had died without consummating the marriage. He also advocated Niyoga, a practice that allowed widows to conceive children with another man for the purpose of continuing the family lineage. According to Satyarth Prakash, both marriage and Niyoga shared the same objective—ensuring the birth of male offspring.
To promote widow remarriage, Arya Samajists published and distributed pamphlets and tracts, emphasizing that such marriages, especially of virgin widows, were in line with Vedic traditions. Prominent Arya Samaj members in Lahore, Amritsar, and Kohat supported this cause through publications like Mushi Jiwan Dass’s Sada-i-Haqq (The Voice of Truth) and Pandit Lekh Ram’s Risala-i-Nawid-i-Begwan (A Treatise Containing Glad News for Widows), which helped shape public opinion. By 1882, Arya Samaj had begun organizing widow remarriages, with reports appearing in The Arya, a monthly journal.
To further support widows, three monthly publications—Vidhwa Bandhu (Hindi), Vidhwa Sahayak (Urdu), and Widow Cause (English)—were launched. Additionally, widow homes (Vidhwa Ashrams) were established in Lahore, Mathura, and Haridwar, offering shelter and facilitating remarriages. In 1915, Sir Ganga Ram founded Vidhwa Vivah Sahayak Sabha to assist in widow remarriages. Leaders like Mahatma Hans Raj worked toward legalizing widow remarriage in the Nabha State, while Mahatma Munshi Ram (later Swami Shraddhanand) advocated for the cause through his 1895 pamphlet Kshatra Dharm Palan Ka Gair Mamuli Mauka.
1. Women Issues and Arya Samaj: By Indu Bala (https://www.ijsr.net/archive/v3i7/MDIwMTQxMDM1.pdf)
The Arya Samaj established Vidhwa Ashrams (widow homes) also known as Banita Ashram in cities like Lahore, Mathura, Agra, Dehradun, and Bareilly, providing shelter, education, and vocational training to widows while facilitating their remarriage. Societies like Vidhwa Vivah Pracharni Sabha and Vidhwa Sahayak Sabha further supported this cause. Over time, these efforts led to social acceptance and legislative reforms improving the status of widows. Arya Samaj’s significant contribution to society has been establishing widow homes. These institutions were designed to provide:
1. Contribution of Arya Samaj in Women Upliftment: A Historical and Legal Reference Dr. Neeru Gupta, Shikha Rani (https://nano-ntp.com/index.php/nano/article/view/4760#:~:text=The%20Arya%20Samaj%20supported%20gender,Vedic%20principles%20back%20to%20life.)
Arya Samaj has been a strong advocate for women's rights and gender equality since its inception, and its Beti Bachao Abhiyan (Save the Daughter Campaign) is a crucial initiative aimed at protecting and empowering girls. Inspired by Swami Dayanand Saraswati’s teachings, the campaign works to eliminate gender discrimination, prevent female feticide, and promote education and equal opportunities for girls. Arya Samaj believes that daughters are not a burden but an integral part of society, and their upliftment is essential for national progress.
Swami Agnivesh in 2005 started Beti Bachao abhiyaan and actively raised awareness against female feticide, which remains a serious issue in many parts of India. Arya Samaj condemns this practice as both unethical and against Vedic principles. Through public campaigns, community programs, and legal advocacy, the organization educates people about the importance of protecting and nurturing daughters. The campaign also focuses on promoting girls’ education, ensuring that every girl has access to knowledge and skills that enable her to lead an independent and dignified life. Arya Samaj runs numerous schools, gurukuls, and scholarship programs dedicated to supporting girls from underprivileged backgrounds.
In addition to education, the campaign fights against gender discrimination and harmful social practices such as child marriage and the dowry system. Arya Samaj promotes simple, dowry-free marriages through Arya Samaj Vivah, reducing the financial pressure on families and discouraging gender-based biases. The movement also empowers women by providing vocational training, financial literacy programs, and self-defence workshops, helping them become self-reliant. Public awareness drives, street plays, and mass campaigns further reinforce the message that daughters should be cherished and given equal opportunities in every sphere of life.
1. Swami Indravesh ne ki thi beti bachao abhiyaan ki shuruaat (https://www.bhaskar.com/har-roh-omc-mat-latest-rohtak-news-052004-2339442-nor.html)
Arya Samaj plays a significant role in promoting the welfare of society, particularly by helping underprivileged girls with their marriages. The Arya Samaj Marriage system is grounded in the principles of equality, respect, and social upliftment. It focuses on offering a simple, dignified, and cost-effective marriage ceremony for poor girls, especially those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
In many cases, the high cost of traditional wedding ceremonies becomes a barrier for families in the lower-income group. Arya Samaj addresses this issue by offering marriage services at minimal costs. The ceremonies conducted by Arya Samaj are performed according to Vedic rituals and are legally recognized, ensuring the sanctity and authenticity of the marriage. The organization also helps by providing financial assistance or waiving fees for families who cannot afford the ceremony, making it possible for poor girls to marry with dignity. Once the Arya Samaj wedding rituals are done, a certificate is issued immediately, which works as full proof of marriage.
Arya Samaj has been actively involved in numerous social welfare activities, reflecting its commitment to human dignity and community service. Arya Samaj has established several orphanages in India, including Arya Anathalaya, Arya Baal Ashram, Sharddhanand Orphanage Trust etc.
Services offered in these orphanages.
It serves as a lifeline for underprivileged communities, offering affordable and quality healthcare. It provides diverse medical services, including gynecology, orthopedics, eye care, general medicine, homeopathy, neuropathy, and advanced facilities like a dental center, path lab, and physiotherapy units. Approximately 1500 hospitals and dispensaries are being run by Arya Samaj to serve mankind.
Staffed by skilled and experienced doctors from reputed hospitals, the dispensary ensures comprehensive treatment for patients, addressing a wide range of medical conditions. It also organizes health camps and awareness programs to promote preventive care and educate the public about health issues.
By offering accessible healthcare to those in need, Arya Samaj's medical dispensary exemplifies the organization's dedication to creating a healthier, happier society. Thousands of patients have benefited from their high-quality services at reasonable costs, making a meaningful impact on community well-being.
1. Arya Samaj Dispensary: https://www.aryasamajvikaspuri.org/dental-department-arya-samaj
2. BRIEF INTRODUCTION OF ARYA SAMAJ https://www.aryasamaj.org/about/arya-samaj
Arya Samaj Hospitals offer high-quality healthcare services to patients of all ages. The hospital team of professionals is highly skilled and well-versed in their respective domains. Patients can receive top-notch treatments, surgeries, and procedures at the hospital. Comprehensive services are provided to support patient health and well-being.
For instance, Arya Samaj 'D' Block Vikas Puri provides healthcare services to underprivileged residents in the area who are unable to afford the high costs of medical care. The organization offers OPD services at a nominal fee of Rs 50/- and Rs 30/- (including medicines) for those with BPL cards and other needy individuals. Currently, 37 doctors with expertise in various fields such as Medicine, ENT, Eye Care, Dermatology, Cardiology, Pediatrics, Physiotherapy, Homeopathy, and Dentistry, along with 50 paramedical staff members, are actively supporting this initiative at Arya Samaj D-Block Vikas Puri. Additionally, lab tests, X-rays, dental X-rays, OPG, and ECG services are available at less than 50% of the standard market rates. Approximately 700 underprivileged patients are benefiting from these services.
The Arya Samaj addressed the deeply entrenched issue of untouchability in Indian society. Swami Dayanand firmly believed in the principle of social equality as prescribed in the Vedas and actively opposed caste-based discrimination that marginalized certain sections of society. Arya Samaj worked towards eliminating untouchability by promoting Vedic values, advocating for education and social integration of the oppressed classes, and initiating several reform movements to uplift them.
Swami Dayanand Saraswati rejected the rigid caste hierarchy that had developed over time, particularly the practice of treating certain communities as "untouchables." He argued that the Varna system, as described in the Vedas, was originally based on merit (karma) and profession rather than birth. He believed that all human beings were equal in the eyes of God and that no individual or group should be socially ostracized due to their birth or occupation. He maintained that caste-based discrimination was a distortion of Vedic principles and needed to be eradicated for the moral and social progress of Indian society.
The Arya Samaj actively worked to dismantle untouchability through several means. One of its most notable contributions was the Shuddhi (Purification) Movement, which aimed at reconverting individuals who had been forcibly converted to Islam or Christianity back to Hinduism. However, it also became a tool for integrating the so-called "lower castes" into mainstream Hindu society. Through Shuddhi, Arya Samaj uplifted many marginalized groups by restoring their social dignity and allowing them to participate in Hindu religious rituals. Education was another crucial aspect of the movement’s efforts, as Arya Samaj emphasized that education was the key to eliminating untouchability. The organization established numerous schools and educational institutions where children from all castes were given equal opportunities to learn. Schools run by Arya Samaj, such as the Dayanand Anglo Vedic (DAV) institutions, provided access to education for underprivileged communities and worked to remove caste barriers in learning.
Arya Samaj strongly opposed the exclusion of lower castes from temples and worked to allow their entry into Hindu religious places. Many Arya Samajists campaigned against this discrimination, ensuring that places of worship were accessible to all Hindus regardless of caste. The movement also encouraged inter-caste dining and marriages, which were revolutionary steps in breaking down caste-based segregation. The organization arranged community meals where people of all backgrounds dined together to challenge the taboo against sharing food with lower castes. Similarly, inter-caste marriages were promoted under Vedic rites, which emphasized marriage based on mutual respect rather than caste identity. Additionally, Arya Samaj undertook several initiatives to improve the socio-economic conditions of marginalized communities by establishing orphanages, vocational training centers, and self-help programs to ensure financial independence for disadvantaged groups.
Many Arya Samaj leaders and activists worked relentlessly to eliminate untouchability and promote social equality. Swami Shraddhanand was one of the most vocal Arya Samaj leaders against untouchability, actively engaging in the Shuddhi Movement, reconverting thousands of Dalits and tribals to Hinduism and fighting for their equal rights. He also worked for Dalit education and was instrumental in allowing them access to temples. Lala Lajpat Rai, a prominent Arya Samajist and nationalist leader, advocated for the upliftment of oppressed communities through education and economic reforms. Bhai Parmanand emphasized the need to eradicate caste-based discrimination and integrate Dalits into the Hindu social framework, while Pandit Guru Dutt Vidyarthi also opposed untouchability and worked towards integrating lower castes into mainstream Hindu society. The efforts of Arya Samaj created a lasting impact on Indian society by challenging the rigid caste system and creating a more inclusive and equal social structure.
1. Arya Samaj and Caste System: A Study of in United Provinces by Meera
2. ROLE OF ARYA SAMAJ IN DALIT UPLIFTMENT: A CRITICAL STUDY (C. 1875-1947 AD) By Sushma
Arya Samaj emerged as a strong force against caste-based discrimination. It advocated for equal rights and opposed untouchability, promoting a society based on Vedic principles of equality and justice. Through its reformist approach, Arya Samaj sought to eradicate social evils and uplift them.
One of the key initiatives of Arya Samaj was in the field of education. It established schools for Harijans, providing them access to learning, which was otherwise denied to them due to caste-based restrictions. The organization supported the right of Dalit children to study alongside upper-caste children, ensuring equal opportunities in education and social empowerment.
Religious inclusion was another major area of focus for Arya Samaj. It conducted Shuddhi (purification) ceremonies to integrate Harijans into mainstream Hindu society. Through these efforts, Dalits were encouraged to worship in temples and participate in religious activities that had long been restricted to them. This initiative aimed to remove caste-based barriers within Hinduism and promote unity among all sections of society.
Arya Samaj played a significant role in the temple entry movements across India, particularly in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra. It demanded the opening of temples to Harijans and directly challenged the social restrictions imposed by orthodox Hindus. Several Arya Samaj leaders, including Swami Shraddhanand, were at the forefront of organizing protests, awareness campaigns, and religious discourses advocating for temple entry rights. These efforts inspired large-scale movements to include Harijans in religious and social life.
The impact of Arya Samaj’s efforts was significant in multiple ways. Over time, temple authorities, under social pressure, gradually allowed Dalits to enter places of worship. The spread of education among Harijans increased literacy, empowering them socially and politically. Additionally, Arya Samaj’s movement helped instill a sense of self-respect and social awareness among Harijans, encouraging them to demand their rights and seek equal treatment within society.
1. 20वीं सदी के पूर्वार्द्ध में राजस्थान में अस्प्रश्यता निवारण के प्रयासों पर राष्ट्रीय आन्दोलन का प्रभाव: डॉ. उषा व्यास (https://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1701419.pdf)
The term "Shuddhi" is derived from Sanskrit, meaning purification, cleansing, and freedom from defilement. Historically, minorities in India have faced repression and discrimination, with large-scale conversions to Islam during the Mughal Empire, often enforced through intimidation, violence, and coercion. Christianity, during British rule, used tactics such as monetary incentives, false promises, and denigrating Hinduism to convert Hindus, particularly targeting the poor and vulnerable.
The Arya Samaj strongly opposed these conversions and initiated the Shuddhi Movement to reconvert Hindus who had adopted other religions under duress or deceit. The movement's first recorded reconversion was in 1877 when Dayanand ji performed the shuddhi of a Muslim man in Dehradun. Mass efforts began in 1908, when Arya missionaries persuaded converts, who still practiced Hindu customs, to return to their ancestral faith.
Swami Shraddhanand, a prominent Arya Samaj leader, played a pivotal role in transforming the Shuddhi Movement into a powerful force within Hinduism, integrating it with Hindu reform efforts. The movement emphasized reclaiming cultural and religious heritage, with the Vedic scriptures reestablished as the cornerstone of spiritual authority under Arya Samaj’s guidance. This mission became a unifying effort to strengthen Hindu identity and promote national solidarity.
1. Arya Samaj ka Itihaas (Dwitiya Bhaag): Indra Vidyavachaspati: Arya Prakashan
Arya Samaj has long been dedicated to the cause of education, promoting the integration of spiritual knowledge with modern academic learning. Swami Dayananda’s vision emphasized rational thinking, the study of the Vedas, and the promotion of social reforms through education. Over the years, Arya Samaj has established a wide array of educational institutions, ranging from primary schools to universities, aimed at increasing intellectual, moral, and spiritual growth.
Arya Samaj played a pivotal role in reviving the Gurukul-based education system in India as a response to the British colonial education model. Arya Samaj emphasized Vedic learning, moral education, and self-discipline, which were fundamental aspects of the ancient Gurukul system. This initiative was driven by the belief that British education alienated Indians from their cultural roots, and Gurukuls would serve as institutions for preserving Indian heritage, Sanskrit learning, and Vedic knowledge.
The movement led to the establishment of Dayanand Anglo-Vedic (DAV) schools and colleges, but ideological differences within Arya Samaj later resulted in a split between modern educationists and traditionalists. The traditionalists, led by Lala Munshi Ram (later Swami Shraddhanand), advocated for a pure Gurukul system, which prioritized Vedic teachings over Western education. As a result, the first Arya Samaj Gurukul, Gurukul Kangri, was founded in 1902 in Haridwar, marking the beginning of a widespread movement to restore Vedic-style education.
DAV schools and colleges were established to promote modern education while preserving Vedic values. The focus was on providing quality education to children from all social strata, especially those from marginalized communities. These institutions aim to balance academic excellence with moral and spiritual education, promoting rational thinking, social service, and character-building. Under the DAV family, there are over 900 schools, 75 colleges, and a university run by the DAV college managing committee.
DAV institutions follow a curriculum that blends modern academic education with ethical and moral teachings based on the principles of Arya Samaj. The schools are affiliated with major educational boards like CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) and offer both academic and extracurricular activities that help in the all-round development of students. Over the years, the DAV schools have produced numerous distinguished students who have made significant contributions in various fields such as science, politics, arts, and literature. The DAV network is now one of the largest educational organizations in India.
It was founded in 1902 by Swami Shraddhananda, a prominent Arya Samaj leader, and stands as one of the most significant educational institutions associated with Arya Samaj. This institution was founded to offer an indigenous alternative to Lord Macaulay’s education policy, focusing on teaching Vedic literature, Indian philosophy, culture, modern sciences, and research.
It aims to revive and integrate ancient Indian education, particularly Brahmacharya, with the best aspects of modern knowledge. It seeks to rejuvenate Indian philosophy and literature, conduct research into both Indian and Western traditions, and create a synthesis of Vedic wisdom with valuable elements from Western thought. The goal is to produce well-rounded citizens who embody the finest traits of both civilizations. Emphasis is placed on value-based education to develop students' personalities, enriching their lives through a positive and collaborative teaching environment. The institution aims to link teaching, research, and extension, enhancing employability by offering holistic education and skill development.
Gurukul Kangri University offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in various disciplines, including Vedic studies, engineering, technology, management, and social sciences. It remains an important center for the study of ancient Indian knowledge systems, especially in the field of Vedic literature, Sanskrit, and Ayurveda. The university is also known for its research initiatives, particularly in the fields of Vedic sciences, spirituality, and sustainable agriculture, combining modern research methods with ancient wisdom.
The University of Fiji was founded in 2004 by the Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji to offer high-quality, affordable higher education to students who lacked access to other tertiary institutions. Its objectives include providing education that is both relevant to Fiji's needs and aligned with a global perspective, while also supporting the country's development as a sustainable, peaceful, inclusive, and progressive society committed to good governance. The University offers programs through its Schools and Centers at the Certificate, Diploma, Undergraduate Degree, Postgraduate levels, master’s and PhD in disciplines such as Accounting, Economics, Management, Computing Science, Information Technology, Mathematics, Law, International Relations, Medicine, Nursing and Language and Literature.
1. Contribution Of Arya Samaj in Indian Education System by Mr. Raj Singh (https://www.ijcrt.org/papers/IJCRT2411317.pdf)
2. Gurukul Kangri University (https://www.gkv.ac.in/)
3. University of Fiji (https://www.unifiji.ac.fj/)
4. Arya Samaj (https://www.thearyasamaj.org/dynamicpage=122_About%20Us)
Arya Veer Dal (often referred to as Aryaveer) is the youth wing of the Arya Samaj, established to promote physical, mental, and spiritual development among the younger generation. After the assassination of Swami Shradhanand in 1926, the first Arya Mahasammelan in 1927, led by Mahatma Hansraj, decided to form a dedicated force to protect Arya Samaj leaders, properties, and functions. This led to the creation of Arya Raksha Samiti under Mahatma Narayan Swami, with a goal of recruiting 10,000 youths and raising ₹10,000. Exceeding expectations, 12,000 youths joined, and on 26 January 1929, Sarvadeshik Arya Pratinidhi Sabha formally established Arya Veer Dal, appointing Sh. Shivchandra Ji was its first Sanchalak. Following the assassination of Mahashay Rajpal, Mahatma Narayan Swami issued orders to constitute an Arya Veer Dal Shakha (Unit) in each & every Arya Samaj premises. This security force effectively halted attacks, ensuring uninterrupted functions. Recognizing its impact, Sarvadeshik Arya Pratinidhi Sabha declared Arya Veer Dal its official youth wing in 1936, appointing Sh. Om Prakash Tyagi as Pradhan Sanchalak in 1940.
Arya Veer Dal aims to nurture disciplined, patriotic, and socially responsible individuals committed to the service of society and the nation. Arya Veer Dal operates under the guiding principle of "संगठन, शुद्धि, सेवा" (Organization, Purity, Service). It seeks to create a generation that is physically strong, mentally alert, and spiritually aware, dedicated to uplifting society and upholding the ideals of the Arya Samaj.
1. Arya Veer Dal: Delhi Pradesh (http://aryaveerdal.org/about-us.html#:~:text=However%2C%20Aryans%20arranged%2012000%20youths,Dal%20by%20passing%20its%20constitution.)
Arya Veerangana Dal serves as the female wing of Arya Veer Dal, established to empower girls with essential physical, moral, and character-building skills. Recognizing that women are the cornerstone of society, the Dal works to nurture the qualities of wisdom, culture, strength, and determination in young girls. Arya Veerangana Dal is working collectively to refine and uplift the moral values of girls in society.
Dedicated to nurturing the best human values in women, the Arya Veerangana Dal conducts various activities throughout the year. One of its key initiatives is the "Annual Camp" held during summer vacations. This 10-day camp brings together girls from all over India, where they undergo training under expert guidance. The camp focuses on enhancing physical, mental, and social skills, including self-defense, yoga, and weaponry training with sticks and swords. Simultaneously, participants immerse themselves in Vedic culture, learning the principles of Hawan, Sandhya, and India’s rich and inspiring history.
1. Sarvadeshik arya veerangana dal: https://www.sarvadeshikaryaveeranganadal.com/home/our-inspiration-founder
Arya Pratibha Vikas Sansthan is an initiative of Arya Samaj dedicated to identifying and guiding youth who aspire to contribute to nation-building through prestigious roles in the Indian Civil Services, such as IAS, IFS, IPS, IRS, and other elite Union and State Public Services. The Sansthan is committed to supporting aspirants who possess the aptitude, ability, willingness, and dedication required to excel in these esteemed services. It envisions imbibing in these candidates the Values of Honesty, Integrity, Determination, Devotion to Duty, and Dedication toward Welfare for the Common People.
1. Arya Pratibha Vikas Sansthan: https://www.pratibhavikas.org/index.html
The cow protection movement in British India aimed to end the slaughter of cows, and Arya Samaj played a crucial role in its expansion and organization. Swami Dayanand Saraswati, the founder of Arya Samaj, actively opposed cow slaughter and promoted cow worship as an essential part of Vedic culture. His teachings emphasized the importance of the cow in Hindu society, linking it to religious, economic, and agricultural prosperity. In 1881, he published "Gokarunanidhi", a treatise condemning cow slaughter as an anti-Hindu practice.
To spread awareness, Swami Dayanand and his followers travelled across India, delivering lectures and founding cow protection societies. These efforts led to the establishment of the first Gaurakshini Sabha in Punjab in 1882. Arya Samaj utilized modern means of communication, including printing presses, newspapers, and public meetings, to mobilize people. The movement soon gained momentum, spreading from Punjab to Bengal, Bombay, Madras, and other regions, where it inspired the creation of Gaushalas (cow shelters) to rescue and care for stray cattle.
By the 1890s, the cow protection movement reached its peak, with large-scale public demonstrations in Nagpur, Haridwar, and Varanasi. Arya Samaj played a significant role in converting the cow protection sentiment into a nationalist cause, collecting signatures and organizing fundraising campaigns to support the movement. In 1893, tensions escalated, leading to riots in Mau (Azamgarh district) and other parts of Northern India, highlighting the growing religious divide over the issue. Despite this, Arya Samaj remained committed to non-violent means of advocacy, focusing on awareness campaigns and petitions to demand a ban on cow slaughter.
Even after independence, Arya Samaj continued its advocacy for cow protection, contributing to post-independence agitations. On November 7, 1966, during the festival of Gopashtami, thousands of Hindu saints, activists, and followers gathered outside Parliament in New Delhi under the leadership of Swami Karpatri Ji Maharaj and the Goraksha Mahabhiyan Samiti to demand a nationwide ban on cow slaughter. The movement had strong support from Arya Samaj, religious leaders, and various Hindu organizations. As the protest intensified, clashes erupted, leading to violent police action, where several sadhus were killed, and many were injured. The brutal crackdown on peaceful demonstrators deeply shocked the nation, turning the streets red with the blood of saints. The movement saw massive demonstrations in Delhi, although it did not achieve an outright national ban.
1. Gokarunanidhi (Hindi and English PDF) by Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati (Arya Samaj)
Arya Samaj has played a significant role in the fight against drug addiction, considering it a major social evil that weakens individuals, families, and society. Swami Dayanand Saraswati strongly condemned intoxicants like alcohol, opium, tobacco, and other drugs, advocating for a pure and disciplined lifestyle based on Vedic principles. Inspired by his teachings, Arya Samaj has been actively working towards eradicating drug addiction through awareness campaigns, rehabilitation programs, and moral education.
One of Arya Samaj's key approaches is public awareness. The organization conducts lectures, seminars, and workshops to educate people about the harmful effects of drugs. These campaigns are often held in schools, colleges, and rural areas, where substance abuse is a growing concern. Arya Samaj preachers use Vedic teachings to highlight the spiritual and physical dangers of intoxication, encouraging individuals to lead a healthy, addiction-free life.
Another significant contribution of Arya Samaj is its advocacy for social and legal reforms. The organization has consistently opposed the sale and consumption of alcohol and drugs, urging government authorities to implement stricter laws against drug abuse. Many Arya Samaj leaders have been involved in movements to ban liquor shops in certain areas and prevent illegal drug trafficking.
Arya Samaj also emphasizes family and community support as a way to prevent and combat drug addiction. The movement encourages strong moral values, self-discipline, and religious devotion, believing that a spiritually aware individual is less likely to fall into addiction. Mass prayers, Vedic yajnas (rituals), and social service activities are conducted to help individuals stay focused on positive and constructive living.
Rampal, originally a disciple of Swami Ramdevanand of the Garib Das Panth, publicly denounced Arya Samaj and its founder, Swami Dayanand Saraswati, particularly criticizing the sacred text "Satyarth Prakash". His derogatory remarks and opposition to Arya Samaj principles deeply angered Arya Samaj followers, leading to mass protests and confrontations. The conflict escalated in 2006, when Arya Samaj supporters gathered outside Rampal’s Satlok Ashram in Rohtak to protest against his statements, resulting in violent clashes where an Arya Samaj follower lost his life. Rampal was subsequently arrested and charged with murder, triggering widespread outrage within Arya Samaj.
Despite his release on bail in 2008, Arya Samaj's leaders continued their opposition to Rampal, demanding that he cease his anti-Vedic propaganda. The situation worsened in 2013, when Arya Samaj-affiliated villagers clashed with police outside his ashram in Karontha, leading to three deaths, including a police officer, and over 100 injuries. Arya Pratinidhi Sabha, the governing body of Arya Samaj, called for strict action against Rampal, urging the Haryana government to intervene. The movement gained national momentum, with Arya Samaj activists organizing demonstrations, legal petitions, and public awareness campaigns to expose Rampal’s misinterpretation of Hindu scriptures and alleged criminal activities.
The culmination of the Arya Samaj-led resistance against Rampal came in 2014, when he refused to appear in court despite multiple summons. In response, the Punjab and Haryana High Court issued a non-bailable warrant, leading to a massive police operation at his Barwala Ashram. Arya Samaj activists vocally supported the government’s crackdown, viewing it as justice for the violence against their community. The siege resulted in six deaths and hundreds of injuries, further intensifying Arya Samaj’s demands for stricter punishment. Rampal was eventually arrested and sentenced to life imprisonment in 2018 for murder, conspiracy, and wrongful confinement.
1. Farmer’s son who became an engineer, now a polarising baba (https://www.hindustantimes.com/punjab/farmer-s-son-who-became-an-engineer-now-a-polarising-baba/story-WKleYVCjCzkkMTSqbjbTdI.html)
2. The Rise And Fall Of Sant Rampal: From ‘Descendant Of Kabir’ To Life Imprisonment (https://www.culteducation.com/group/1315-rampal/37822-the-rise-and-fall-of-sant-rampal-from-descendant-of-kabir-to-life-imprisonment.html)
Swami Dayanand strongly believed that Hindi, in Devanagari script, should be the unifying language of India. He opposed the dominance of Persian, Urdu and English in administration and education, recognizing Hindi as a crucial tool for national unity and cultural identity. His emphasis on Hindi not only promoted the language but also strengthened the spirit of nationalism and self-reliance.
Swami Dayanand's linguistic vision was revolutionary. Although his mother tongue was Gujarati and he was highly proficient in Sanskrit, he chose to deliver speeches and write extensively in Hindi to reach the common people. His seminal work, Satyarth Prakash, was written in Hindi, making religious and philosophical knowledge accessible to all. He referred to Hindi as "Arya Bhasha" and ensured that Arya Samaj's functions and publications were conducted in Hindi. In the first meeting of Arya Samaj in Bombay, one of the twenty-eight founding principles mandated that all members and office bearers must use Hindi. This decision significantly contributed to Hindi's popularity, especially in northern India.
One of the major contributions of Arya Samaj to Hindi conservation was its influence on Hindi literature and journalism. The Samaj established Hindi newspapers and journals such as Arya Darpan (1878), Arya Samachar (1878), Bharat Sudasha Pravartak (1879), and Desh Hiteshi (1882). These publications played a crucial role in spreading Hindi and increasing literacy. Between 1885 and 1900, Arya Samajists published over 200 newspapers and magazines, significantly expanding the reach of Hindi, even in non-Hindi-speaking regions. The Samaj also influenced great Hindi poets and writers like Bhartendu Harishchandra and Mahakavi Nirala, who credited Arya Samaj for awakening Hindi consciousness in India.
Arya Samaj also played a crucial role in educational reforms that promoted Hindi. The Dayanand Anglo-Vedic (DAV) schools and Gurukuls made Hindi the primary language of instruction. Gurukul Kangri in Haridwar developed Hindi textbooks for science and mathematics, ensuring that Hindi could be used as a medium for modern education. This laid the foundation for Hindi’s expansion in higher education, science, and administration.
Arya Samaj’s efforts were instrumental in Hindi gaining official status in India. When the Hunter Commission was set up in 1882 to evaluate India’s education system, Swami Dayanand and Arya Samajists submitted thousands of petitions advocating for Hindi as a language of administration and education. Over 200,000 people signed memoranda supporting Hindi, leading to significant policy changes. The movement also influenced princely states like Jodhpur, Shahpur, and Udaipur, whose rulers were followers of Arya Samaj and declared Hindi as the court language.
Even after Swami Dayanand’s time, Arya Samaj continued its mission of Hindi conservation. The Hindi Raksha Andolan, which fought against the dominance of Urdu and English, was heavily supported by Arya Samaj leaders like Swami Shraddhanand and Lala Lajpat Rai. Their efforts ultimately contributed to Hindi being recognized as the official language of India in 1949.
1. https://vajiramandravi.com/quest-upsc-notes/arya-samaj/
2. Arya samaj and Indian education system: By Gurvinder Kaur https://www.historyjournal.net/article/272/6-1-27-529.pdf
The Arya Samaj has been instrumental in promoting Vedic teachings and societal reforms. One of its significant contributions is the 'Kumbh Ved Abhiyaan,' an initiative aimed at disseminating Vedic knowledge during the Kumbh Mela, one of the world's largest religious gatherings. Swami Dayanand Saraswati hoisted the Pakhand Khandini Pataka at the 1867 Haridwar Kumbh Mela to oppose social evils, blind faith, and superstitions. This flag, still unfurled at Haridwar's Vedic Mohan Ashram, symbolizes the movement against religious hypocrisy. His Pakhand Khandini booklet emphasized rejecting falsehood and embracing truth. He promoted the supremacy of the Vedas and nationalism, spreading Vedic wisdom across India.
Arya Samaj continues this legacy by organizing programs and discussions at the Kumbh Mela to educate attendees about Vedic scriptures and their relevance. These efforts aim to inspire individuals to lead lives rooted in Vedic wisdom, promoting values such as truth, righteousness, and universal brotherhood.