Role of Social-Religious Movements in the Development of Indian Nationalism
The rise of Indian nationalism in the 19th century is one of the major events in Indian history that deeply influenced the history of the later period The rise of nationalism was greatly strengthened by the socio-religious renaissance movement of this period. The socio-religious movements created the conditions and created the state of mind in which the plant of nationalism could grow. Efforts were made to integrate the society through social reforms,which could lead to the formation of a mindset for further national integration. Talking about the interests of untouchables and dalits,evil of caste system, women empowerment etc. were the works which gave strength to nationalism and national integration.Then the evils prevailing in the society were supported in a way by orthodox religious practices. That is why religious reform was very necessary, then only we could take forward social reform.Then these religious and social reforms made us aware of the greatness of our past which is very important for our national pride and self-respect. Though religious reforms gave birth to communalism in some way or the other indirectly, which further had a fatal effect, but through socio-economic reforms, the development of national mentality took place.
