Mahatma Jotirao Phule's writings and efforts of social reforms touched issues of almost all subaltern classes. Discuss.

Theme

T13 Socio-religious reform: Brahmo Samaj, Young Bengal, Phule

What UPSC asks in this theme

UPSC asks about the rise of reform movements (Brahmo Samaj, Young Bengal) and reformers like Phule who addressed subaltern groups.

What to cover

• Brahmo Samaj, Young Bengal, Prarthana Samaj, Arya Samaj, Ramakrishna Mission
• Phule: Satyashodhak Samaj, Gulamgiri, education for women and lower castes
• Caste reformers: Narayana Guru, Periyar, Ambedkar

Writing the answer

• Organise by region or by issue (caste, women, religion)
• Link reformers' ideas to constitutional values today

These notes are for the whole theme, built from all 2 of its PYQs. UPSC does not publish model answers.