Harichand Thakur and his contribution

Why in news?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Shri Harichand Thakur on his birth anniversary.

About Shri Harichand Thakur

Introduction: He was a great social reformer, religious leader and savior of refugees of the 19th century. He founded the Matua Mahasangha in Bengal.
- He is especially famous in the region of Bengal and Orissa. His teachings and work are still a source of inspiration for change in society.
Place of birth: He was born in an untouchable community called Namasudra at a place called Orkandi in Bengal, which is in present-day Bangladesh.
Parents' name: Kamala Devi and Krishnaram Thakur

Upliftment of the lower class: He adopted the path of religious reform to promote compassion and justice.
Chandal Movement: Led the untouchability movement called 'Chandal Movement' (Namashudra Movement) in Bengal of the 19-20th century. As a result, the British government banned untouchability in Bengal in the year 1911.
Principles: Based on truth, love, purity
Social reforms: Matua sect considers men and women equal, discourages underage marriage and allows widow remarriage.
Education: An English medium high school was built in Orakandi for the lower caste people.
Savior of refugees: He believed that every person has the right to shelter and everyone has the right to live with dignity in the society.

Equality and justice: His life was based on the principles of equality and justice. He believed that all individuals should get equal rights and opportunities.
Humanity: He always followed humanity. His life was always dedicated to the welfare of every section of the society.
True form of religion: He did not limit religion only to external rituals, but tried to connect it with the inner truth and morality of life.