Consider the following statements regarding the Prarthana Samaj: 1. It was established in Bombay in 1867. 2. It sought to remove caste restrictions…

The correct option is (d).

Explanation

The Prarthana Samaj was a prominent socio-religious reform movement in Western India, established to rationalize Hindu social customs and religious practices. It was heavily influenced by the Brahmo Samaj but maintained a distinct identity rooted in local traditions.

Statement-wise Analysis:

• Statement 1 is Correct: The Prarthana Samaj was established in Bombay in 1867. It was founded by Dr. Atmaram Pandurang. Later, prominent leaders like Justice M.G. Ranade and R.G. Bhandarkar joined the organization, significantly expanding its reach and influence.
• Statement 2 is Correct: The Samaj prioritized social reform over religious controversy. Its four-point social agenda included:
  1. Disapproval of the caste system.
  2. Raising the age of marriage (abolition of child marriage).
  3. Encouragement of widow remarriage.
  4. Promotion of women's education.
• Statement 3 is Correct: Unlike the Brahmo Samaj, which drew heavily from the Upanishads and Western liberalism, the Prarthana Samaj relied on the Bhakti tradition of Maharashtra (saints like Namdev and Tukaram). It emphasized monotheism and the spiritual equality of all castes, using the devotional poems of the Varkari saints to propagate its ideology.

Key Takeaway:

The Prarthana Samaj sought to reform Hinduism from within by combining modern rationalist ideas with the indigenous Bhakti tradition, focusing on prayer (Prarthana) and social service rather than rigid rituals or idol worship.