Q. Consider the following statements about Raja Ram Mohan Roy :
I. He possessed great love and respect for the traditional philosophical systems of the East.
II. He desired his countrymen to accept the rational and scientific approach and the principle of human dignity and social equality of all men and women.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) I only
(b) II only
(c) Both I and II
(d) Neither I nor II
Correct Answer : (c) Both I and II
UPSC Prelims 2025 GS Paper's Solution
Explanation :
Statement I: Ram Mohan Roy’s impact on modern Indian history was his revival of the pure and ethical principles of the Vedanta school of philosophy as found in the Upanishads. He preached the unity of God, made early translations of Vedic scriptures into English, co-founded the Calcutta Unitarian Society and founded the Brahmo Sabha, precursor to Brahmo Samaj.
Statement II: He was a strong opponent of the caste system and fought to abolish social evils like Sati, child marriage, and caste discrimination, promoting dignity, equality, and justice for all. He also championed women’s rights, advocating for their education and equality.
