Raja Rammohun Roy and The Indian Renaissance

The Time finds the man. This may appear to be a cliche to those who are not familiar with history. Yet it embodies a fact of human progress which cannot be negated. Raja Rammohun Roy cut through the deadwood and injected a new temper consistent with progress. He fought for social reforms. He advocated education for women.  He protested against the treatment of widows, specially the inhuman act of Sati. He pleaded for widow remarriage. He advocated a new socio-economic philosophy into which the modern concept of the West could be suitably blended. He loved India, loved the people, foresaw that alien rule was a necessary evil which should be tolerated till the nation would become united and strong to break the shackles of slavery. He visualised the strengthening of the nation through socio-economic reforms. The life of such a man can be retold any number of times and still it remains fresh and inspiring. The focus of the book, as the title implies, is on the part that Raja Rammohun Roy played in reviving the spirit of India and in placing Indian Renaissance on the right track. This is the main thrust of the authors. They provide a brilliant study of the Reformer a study that will add one more record of the great man and his highly acclaimed work.

Shashi Ahluwalia is a post-graduate in Political Science. From her youth she has been fascinated by saints, savants, scholars and great sons of India, who have shaped the destiny of the nation. It is her devotion to these veterans which has prompted her to bring out these books as a humble tribute to them. She has authored over two dozen books. Her books include Rajiv Gandhi: Breaking New Grounds; Bharat-Ratnas; Netaji and Gandhi; Sardar Patel: Rebel and Ruler; Sivaji and Indian Nationalism; Founders of New India and Martyrdom of Indira Gandhi. Her books have been very well received both by the press and public alike. Currently she is working on the Buddha and Buddhism. Meenakshi Ahluwalia is a student of Sociology in Delhi University. Though young in years still she has displayed maturity far beyond her age. May be she has imbibed the literary skill from her parents- B. K.  and Shashi Ahluwalia-who have established themselves as leading commentators on the national struggle and biographers of patriots.