1) About Prarthana Samaj:
o A socio-religious reform movement in Maharashtra, inspired by the Brahmo Samaj of Bengal.
o Founded in 1867 by Dr. Atmaram Pandurang to promote monotheism and social reforms like widow remarriage and abolition of caste discrimination.
2) Historical Importance:
o Later supported by prominent leaders like Justice Mahadev Govind Ranade and R.G. Bhandarkar.
o It played a pivotal role in modernizing Hindu society.
Incorrect options:
· Gopal Krishna Gokhale: Not associated with Prarthana Samaj but a leader of the Servants of India Society.
· Shri Ram Bajpai: Not linked to this movement.
· Ram Mohan Roy: Founder of the Brahmo Samaj in Bengal, which inspired the Prarthana Samaj.