Question

Explain the principles of Prarthana Samaj.

Answer 1

‘Prarthana Samaj’ had its origin in the ‘Paramhamsa Sabha’. It was founded by Dadoba Pandurang Tarkhadkar. The founding members of ‘Prarthana Samaj’ like Dr. Atmaram Pandurang, Justice M.G. Ranade, Dr. R.G. Bhandarkar opposed idol worship and emphasised the principle of ‘One Supreme God’ (monotheism). They opened orphanages, schools for girls, and night schools for workers. They focused on the importance of gender equality, wiping out caste discrimination, and also appreciating the value of mundane life.