- Gopal Hari Deshmukh (1823–1892):
- Gopal Hari Deshmukh, also known as Lokahitawadi, was a social reformer from Maharashtra. He advocated for social and economic reforms, including the abolition of caste-based discrimination, promotion of women’s education, and improvement of agricultural practices. Deshmukh was a prolific writer and editor, using his publications to spread awareness about social issues and advocate for reform.
- Dhondo Keshav Karve (1858–1962):
- Dhondo Keshav Karve, also known as Maharshi Karve, was a social reformer and educator from Maharashtra. He dedicated his life to promoting women’s education and empowerment. Karve established the first school for widows in India and founded the Widows Home Association to provide shelter and support to widows. He also played a key role in the passage of the Hindu Widow Remarriage Act in 1891.
- Tarabai Shinde (1850–1910):
- Tarabai Shinde was a social reformer and feminist writer from Maharashtra. She is best known for her influential essay “Stri Purush Tulana” (A Comparison Between Women and Men), published in 1882. In this essay, Shinde critiqued the patriarchal norms and double standards that oppressed women in Indian society. She called for gender equality and women’s rights, challenging prevailing social attitudes and customs.
- Krishnabai Kelavkar (1869–1955):
- Krishnabai Kelavkar was a social reformer and women’s rights activist from Maharashtra. She was a vocal advocate for women’s education, widow remarriage, and gender equality. Kelavkar worked closely with social reform organizations such as the Arya Mahila Samaj and the Bombay Presidency Women’s Association to promote women’s welfare and empowerment. She also campaigned against child marriage and dowry system.
- Pandurang Sadashiv Khankhoje (1884–1967):
- Pandurang Sadashiv Khankhoje was a social reformer and freedom fighter from Maharashtra. He was a leading figure in the Satyagraha movement and played a key role in the struggle for Indian independence. Khankhoje was also a strong advocate for social reform, particularly in the areas of education, agriculture, and rural development. He worked to improve the lives of farmers and promote sustainable farming practices.
- Kandukuri Veeresalingam Pantulu (1848–1919):
- Kandukuri Veeresalingam Pantulu was a social reformer from Andhra Pradesh. He campaigned for women’s rights, education, and social reform. Pantulu established the first school for girls in Andhra Pradesh and advocated for widow remarriage and the abolition of child marriage. He also wrote extensively on social issues and worked to raise awareness about the need for reform in Indian society.
These minor social reformers made significant contributions to the social and religious reform movements in India, advocating for women’s rights, education, caste reform, and social equality. Though they may not be as well-known as some of the major figures, their efforts were instrumental in bringing about positive change in Indian society.
