Vishnu Shastri Pandit: Supported Prarthana
Samaj, Advocated Widow Remarriage in Maharashtra
Introduction
In the 19th century, India was steeped in social customs that oppressed many,
particularly women. Among the brave reformers who challenged these traditions
was Vishnu Shastri Pandit (1827–1876), a scholar and social reformer from
Maharashtra. Known for his association with the Prarthana Samaj and his
tireless advocacy for widow remarriage, Vishnu Shastri lit a spark of change in
a society bound by rigid norms. His efforts aimed to uplift widows, who faced
immense suffering, and to promote equality and justice. This note explores the
reasons behind his mission, the course of his work, and the lasting results of
his contributions.
Reasons for Inception
The 19th century was a time of social awakening in India, driven by exposure to
Western education and reformist ideas. However, Hindu widows, especially in
upper-caste communities, lived in dire conditions. After losing their husbands,
they were forced to shave their heads, wear plain clothes, and live in
isolation, often treated as inauspicious. Remarriage was unthinkable, as it was
believed to violate Hindu scriptures. Vishnu Shastri, a learned Brahmin
scholar, was deeply moved by this injustice. His study of ancient texts
convinced him that widow remarriage was not forbidden by the Shastras, contrary
to popular belief.
The formation of the Prarthana Samaj in 1867, a reformist
organization in Bombay inspired by the Brahmo Samaj, further fueled his resolve.
The Prarthana Samaj sought to reform Hinduism by promoting monotheism, social
equality, and women’s rights. Vishnu Shastri saw this as a platform to
challenge oppressive customs. The plight of young widows, often child brides,
who were condemned to a life of misery, was a key reason for his mission. He
believed that remarriage could restore dignity and purpose to their lives.
Additionally, the intellectual climate of Maharashtra, with reformers like
Jyotirao Phule and M.G. Ranade, inspired him to act boldly.
Course of His Work
Vishnu Shastri Pandit’s journey as a reformer was marked by courage and
determination. He began by studying Hindu scriptures to build a strong case for
widow remarriage. Unlike many traditionalists, he argued that texts like the Parasara
Smriti supported remarriage under certain conditions. This scholarly approach
gave his advocacy credibility and countered orthodox objections.
In the 1850s, Vishnu Shastri founded the Widow Remarriage
Association in Bombay, a pioneering organization dedicated to promoting and
facilitating widow remarriage. The association worked to connect willing widows
with prospective grooms and provided social support to overcome stigma. It also
campaigned against related customs, such as child marriage and the shaving of
widows’ heads, which dehumanized women.
As a key member of the Prarthana Samaj, Vishnu Shastri
collaborated with reformers like M.G. Ranade and R.G. Bhandarkar. The Samaj’s
agenda included abolishing caste discrimination, promoting women’s education,
and raising the age of marriage, all of which aligned with his goals. He used
the Samaj’s platform to deliver lectures, write articles, and engage with the
public, spreading awareness about the need for reform. His efforts were not
limited to words; he took bold actions, such as marrying a widow himself in
1875, defying societal norms and setting a powerful example.
Vishnu Shastri also supported the establishment of
schools for girls and untouchables, recognizing that education was essential
for social change. In 1865, he founded the Vidhava Vivaha Uttejaka Mandal,
another organization focused on encouraging widow remarriage. His work faced
fierce opposition from orthodox Brahmins, who saw his actions as a threat to
tradition. Despite criticism and social ostracism, he remained steadfast, using
logic and compassion to win over hearts.
Results and Impact
Vishnu Shastri Pandit’s contributions had a profound impact, though change was
gradual. The Widow Remarriage Association and Vidhava Vivaha Uttejaka Mandal
helped many widows find new lives through remarriage, breaking the chains of
social stigma. His scholarly arguments laid the groundwork for the Hindu
Widows’ Remarriage Act of 1856, which legalized remarriage, although he
continued to push for its acceptance after its passage. His association with
the Prarthana Samaj strengthened the organization’s influence in Maharashtra,
making it a beacon of progressive thought.
His personal act of marrying a widow inspired other
reformers, such as D.K. Karve, to follow suit. It challenged societal norms and
encouraged open discussions about women’s rights. The schools he supported
empowered girls and marginalized communities, planting seeds for future
educational reforms. His work also influenced later organizations, such as the
Arya Mahila Samaj, founded by Pandita Ramabai.
However, the resistance from orthodox sections meant that
widow remarriage remained uncommon during his lifetime. The social stigma
persisted, and many families refused to accept remarried widows. Despite these
challenges, Vishnu Shastri’s efforts created a ripple effect, inspiring a
generation of reformers and contributing to the broader women’s emancipation
movement. His legacy lives on in the progressive ideals of Maharashtra’s social
reform movement.
Conclusion
Vishnu
Shastri Pandit was a visionary who dared to challenge the injustices faced by
widows in 19th-century India. Through his work with the Prarthana Samaj, the
Widow Remarriage Association, and his personal example, he brought hope to
countless women. His mission was born from compassion and a desire for justice,
carried forward with unwavering resolve, and resulted in lasting changes that
continue to inspire. His life reminds us that one person’s courage can light
the path to a better, more equal society.
