Social reform movements in India have played a pivotal role in shaping the socio-political and cultural landscape of the nation. These movements, which emerged primarily in the 19th and early 20th centuries, were crucial in addressing deep-rooted social injustices, advocating for equality, and striving to improve the conditions of marginalized communities. The significance of social…
Major Features of Political Thought in Ancient India
The political thought of ancient India, which spanned several centuries, is a rich and complex tradition rooted in the social, cultural, and religious fabric of the time. It presents an intricate blend of philosophical ideas, practical governance, and moral principles. The major features of political thought in ancient India can be understood through a study…
Socialist Thought of Jai Prakash Narayan
Jai Prakash Narayan (1902–1979), often referred to as JP, was one of the most influential political leaders and thinkers in post-independence India. A key figure in India’s freedom struggle, Narayan was deeply committed to social justice, democracy, and human dignity. His socialist thought evolved over time, particularly in response to the political developments in India…
M.N. Roy’s Humanist Critique of Marxism
M.N. Roy (1887–1954), a prominent Indian revolutionary and political thinker, is known for his critical approach towards Marxism, particularly as it evolved in the Soviet Union and other parts of the world. A key figure in the radical nationalist and communist movements, Roy was deeply involved in the Indian independence struggle and later became a…
B.R. Ambedkar’s Idea of Social Justice and Supportive Polity
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (1891–1956), one of India’s most prominent social reformers, thinkers, and architects of the Indian Constitution, is often regarded as a champion of social justice. His life’s work was dedicated to uplifting the oppressed, particularly the Dalits (formerly known as “Untouchables”), and promoting equality and human dignity. Ambedkar’s concept of social justice was…
Jawaharlal Nehru’s Ideas on Scientific Temper and His Concept of Scientific Humanism
Jawaharlal Nehru (1889–1964), the first Prime Minister of independent India, was not only a political leader but also a visionary who played a central role in shaping the ideological and intellectual foundation of modern India. One of his key contributions was his advocacy for a scientific temper and his development of the concept of scientific…
Gandhi’s Views on Parliamentary Democracy
Mahatma Gandhi (1869–1948), the architect of Indian independence and a towering figure of political ethics, held complex and often critical views regarding parliamentary democracy, particularly as it was practised in the West. While Gandhi acknowledged certain democratic ideals such as liberty, equality, participation, and accountability, his critique of Western-style parliamentary democracy stemmed from its materialism,…
Mohammad Iqbal’s ideas on nationalism and his contribution to Muslim thought
Allama Mohammad Iqbal (1877–1938), one of the most prominent philosophers, poets, and political thinkers of the 20th century, played a critical role in shaping the intellectual landscape of the Indian subcontinent, especially in relation to Muslim identity and nationalism. Iqbal’s ideas on nationalism were deeply intertwined with his vision of Muslim political and cultural revival,…
Savarkar’s views on nation and the state
Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (1883–1966), a prominent figure in the Indian freedom struggle, was a radical nationalist whose ideas on the nation and the state have had a profound influence on the political discourse of modern India. Savarkar is best known for his contributions to the development of Hindu nationalism, as well as his controversial views…
Religio-Political ideas of Dayanand Saraswati
Dayanand Saraswati (1824–1883) was one of the most influential figures in the religious and socio-political landscape of 19th-century India. As the founder of the Arya Samaj, Dayanand made significant contributions to religious reform and played a crucial role in the revival of Hinduism, challenging the orthodoxy that had taken hold of the religion during the…
Differences between the Moderates and the Extremists in the National Movement
The Indian National Movement, which sought to achieve independence from British colonial rule, saw a division in the strategies and methods adopted by different groups within the Indian National Congress (INC). The two major factions that emerged were the Moderates and the Extremists. These two groups differed significantly in their approach towards achieving independence, their…
Explain the role of political leadership in reforming Indian society
Political leadership has always been an essential driver in any nation’s social transformation, and in India, the role of political leadership in reforming society has been particularly significant. The Indian society, characterized by a rigid caste system, gender inequality, and widespread illiteracy, required visionary leadership to address these deep-rooted social issues. The political leaders of…