MAHARSHI DAYANAND SARASWATI

(12 February 1824 – 30 October 1883)

Dayanand Saraswati, the founder of Arya Samaj, is hailed as one of India’s greatest social reformers, philosophers, and leaders of the pre-independence era. Born as Mool Shankar Tiwari on February 12, 1824, in Gujarat, Dayanand Saraswati inspired generations by reviving Vedic ideologies. He was named Mool because he was born when the Mool Nakshatra prevailed.

The social reformer emphasized the learning of the Vedas and believed in equality, irrespective of gender. He promoted the right to education, advocated the principles of Karma and rebirths but detested superstitious beliefs. His call for Swaraj (self-rule) is believed to have inspired India’s freedom fighters, and therefore, he is also referred to as one of the ‘Makers of Modern India’.

Swami Dayanand Saraswati was more than a religious leader of India who left a deep impact on Indian society. He founded the Arya Samaj that brought about changes in the religious perception of Indians. He brought about a complete overhaul of the education system by introducing Anglo-Vedic schools to offer Indian students an updated curriculum teaching both the knowledge of the Vedas along with contemporary English education. Although he was never really involved in politics directly, his political observations were the source of inspiration for a number of political leaders during India’s struggle for independence.

He was a universally revered figure and American Spiritualist Andrew Jackson Davis called Maharishi Dayanand the “Son of God,” admitting that he had exerted a profound effect on his spiritual beliefs and applauded him for restoring the status of the Nation. He succumbed to death on October 30, 1883, at Ajmer.

“The fitness of the pupil is shown in his love for the acquisition of knowledge, his willingness to receive instruction, his reverence for learned and virtuous men, his attendance upon the teacher, and his execution of orders”