Swami Dayananda Saraswati: Indian Political Thought

Swami Dayananda Saraswati (1824-1883) was a prominent figure in modern Indian political thought, known for his advocacy of social reform, opposition to British colonialism, and influence on the Indian independence movement. Born in Gujarat, he wrote influential works such as "Satyarth Prakash" and "Sanskarvidhi," and founded the Hindu reform movement Arya Samaj in 1875.

Social Reform: Swami Dayananda Saraswati was a revolutionary figure in his opposition to the prevailing caste system. He believed that the caste system was a distorted form of the ancient caste system and that it should be based on merit, function, and temperament, not birth. He encouraged intercaste mobility, a message that was radical in the dogmatic Hindu society of the time. He also opposed the practice of untouchability, which he considered unjust and inhuman, and was against idol worship, caste system, ritualism, fatalism, infanticide, and the sale of grooms.

Hindu Nationalism: Swami Dayananda Saraswati was a cultural nationalist who advocated for a return to the roots of Hinduism, which he believed were the Vedas. He felt that this would improve the religious, social, political, and economic conditions of the country. He preached universalism and not any specific caste, and his teachings are still relevant in today's times. He was the first to give the call for 'Swarajya' as 'India for Indians' in 1876, a call that was later taken up by Lokmanya Tilak.

Political Philosophy: Swami Dayananda Saraswati favored an enlightened monarchy. He believed that the ideal king should be a kshatriya, a ruler and fighter for the nation, and that danda (justice) was the symbol of political power. He believed that the dharma (rules of righteousness) would inspire the king to perform his duty and that danda was the founder and administrator of justice, protecting the four varnas (classes) and the four ashrams (stages of life).

Influence on Indian Independence Movement: Swami Dayananda Saraswati's work, especially his book "Satyarth Prakash," contributed to the Indian independence movement. His followers include Sri Aurobindo, S Radhakrishnan, and Baba Ramdev. One of his most influential works, "Satyarth Prakash," voiced opinions against idolatry and emphasized the importance of education and the pursuit of knowledge.

Critique of British Colonialism: Swami Dayananda Saraswati was critical of British rule in India. He opposed the social, cultural, and political domination of the West and was considered a warrior in God's world, a sculptor of men and institutions. He believed that India should be free from foreign rule and that it should reclaim its own heritage.

Religious Reforms: Swami Dayananda Saraswati's influence extended to religious reforms. He advocated for the liberation of women and the upliftment of the depressed class. He opposed Islam and Christianity, advocating for the Suddhi movement to reconvert those who had left Hinduism to these religions.

In summary, Swami Dayananda Saraswati was a significant figure in modern Indian political thought. He was a social reformer who challenged the prevailing caste system, a Hindu nationalist who advocated for a return to the roots of Hinduism, a political philosopher who favored an enlightened monarchy, a critic of British colonialism, and a religious reformer who advocated for the liberation of women and the upliftment of the depressed class. His teachings and ideas have had a lasting impact on India and continue to be relevant today.