Arya Samaj, a progressive socio-religious reform movement, was founded on April 10, 1875, by Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati in Bombay (now Mumbai), India. The movement arose as a response to the prevalent social, religious, and cultural issues of the 19th century, such as caste-based discrimination, idolatry, superstitions, and the degradation of Vedic teachings. Dayanand Saraswati, deeply influenced by the eternal truths of the Vedas, envisioned Arya Samaj as a platform to revive ancient Indian wisdom and reform society based on rationality and truth.
From its inception, Arya Samaj emphasized the need for both spiritual enlightenment and social reform, making it a unique blend of religious philosophy and activism. The movement quickly gained traction, spreading across India and even reaching international communities, with its ideals resonating with individuals seeking truth, equality, and progress.
After Swami Dayananda died in 1883, the Arya Samaj continued to grow under the leadership of other reformers and intellectuals. The organization became a leading force in the Indian freedom movement, with many Arya Samaj leaders actively participating in the struggle for independence from British colonial rule.
The Arya Samaj's emphasis on social equality, education, and religious reform had a profound impact on Indian society, contributing significantly to the modernization of Hinduism and the upliftment of the marginalized. Today, the Arya Samaj remains an influential organization, with branches around the world, continuing to promote its core values of Vedic wisdom, social justice, and educational empowerment.
Arya Samaj is grounded in the principles of Vedic dharma and seeks to guide humanity towards a life of truth (Satya), justice, and righteousness (Dharma). Its ideology is encapsulated in its Ten Principles, which serve as the moral and philosophical foundation for its followers.
1. Belief in One Supreme God: Arya Samaj emphasizes the worship of a formless, omnipotent, omniscient, and compassionate God. It rejects idol worship and rituals, advocating a pure and direct connection with the Divine.
2. Return to the Vedas: Arya Samaj upholds the Vedas as the ultimate source of knowledge, viewing them as eternal and infallible. It calls for the revival of Vedic teachings to address contemporary challenges.
3. Rejection of Superstition and Dogma: The movement strongly opposes irrational beliefs, meaningless rituals, and practices that lack a scientific basis.
4. Equality and Social Reform: Arya Samaj advocates for social equality, including the abolition of the caste system, promotion of women’s rights, widow remarriage, and universal education.
5. Promotion of Education: The movement prioritizes both spiritual and secular education, believing that knowledge is the key to personal and societal progress. Institutions like the Dayanand Anglo-Vedic (DAV) schools and colleges were established to promote quality education.
6. Universal Brotherhood: Arya Samaj transcends barriers of caste, creed, and nationality, promoting harmony and the concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world as one family).
7. Self-Reliance and Moral Integrity: Arya Samaj emphasizes self-discipline, ethical living, and self-reliance, encouraging individuals to contribute positively to society.
8. Opposition to Social Evils: The movement is committed to eradicating child marriage, dowry, untouchability, and other oppressive practices.