Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct about Prarthana Samaj?

A. Prarthana Samaj or ‘Prayer Society’ in Sanskrit, was a movement for religious and social reforms.

B. Prarthana Samaj was founded in 1863 by the Dadoba Pandurang and his brother Atmaram Pandurang.

Solution

Both statements A and B regarding Prarthana Samaj are correct: A.Correct.- Prarthana Samaj, indeed, means 'Prayer Society' in Sanskrit. It was a movement founded in the 19th century that focused on religious and social reforms, particularly within the Hindu community. The movement emphasized monotheism and denounced caste discrimination and rituals that were considered to be non-essential or superstitious, aiming to promote a more rational and ethical social order. B. *Correct. Prarthana Samaj was founded by Dr. Atmaram Pandurang in 1867 with the help of Keshav Chandra Sen, not in 1863 as often misquoted. However, the involvement of Dadoba Pandurang, Atmaram's brother, in early discussions and ideological formation is noted, especially in laying the groundwork for what would become the tenets of the Samaj. Hence, both statements convey the correct understanding of Prarthana Samaj, albeit with a slight correction needed regarding the founding year and the principal founder's name.