Borivali
Simplicity is the hallmark of Arya Samaj weddings.
Arya Samaj founder Swami Dayanand Saraswati’s idea of a modern India.
Arya Samaj was founded in 1875 by Dayananda Sarasvati.
Hindu reformist Swami Dayanand Saraswati revolutionized Indian religion and is considered as one of the ‘Makers of Modern India’. Swami Dayanand Saraswati (1824-1883), was more than just a religious leader.
The founder of the Hindu reform organization Arya Samaj, he left a deep impact on Indian society and the concept of religion.
His teachings are equally relevant in today’s times.
Establishing the Arya Samaj
Swami Dayanand established the Arya Samaj on April 7, 1875 in Bombay, with 10 principles that are beautifully based purely on God, soul and nature.
The organization brought about immense changes in the religious perceptions of Indians.
By establishing this community, he enshrined the idea that “all actions should be performed with the prime objective of benefiting mankind”, as opposed to following dogmatic rituals of revering idols and symbols.
Dayanand’s Motive
Dayanand Saraswati’s main message was for the Hindus to go back to the roots of their religion, which are the Vedas.
By doing this, he felt that Hindus would be able to improve the depressive religious, social, political, and economic conditions prevailing in the country at the time.
One of his most influential works is the book Satyarth Prakash, which contributed to the Indian independence movement.
His followers include Sri Aurobindo, S Radhakrishnan and Baba Ramdev.
Educative reforms by Dayanand Saraswati
Swami Dayanand Saraswati brought about a complete overhaul of the education system of India by introducing Anglo-Vedic schools to offer students an updated curriculum — imparting both the knowledge of the Vedas and contemporary English education.
Dayanand questioned religion ahead of time
His logical, scientific and critical analysis of faiths like Christianity and Islam as well as Jainism, Buddhism and Sikhism, opened the eyes of many.
He voiced his opinions against idolatry and the pointless emphasis on empty ritualism, and stood against manmade dictates such as caste by birth and women-exclusion from reading Vedas.
Swami Dayanand Saraswati’s assassination
Common to the likes of him — due to his strong preaching against fanatic Hinduism — Swamihad many enemies
On September 29, 1883 — Maharaja of Jodhpur Jaswant Singh II, invited Maharishi to his palace to seek his blessings
Dayanand offended the court dancer when he advised the King to forsake her and suggested her to pursue a life of Dharma.