Consider the following statements with regard to the Rahnumai Mazdayasnan Sabha or Religious Reform Association:
1. It was founded in 1885 under the aegis of the Indian National Congress.
2. Narouji Furdonji, Dadabhai Naoroji, and S.S. Bengalee were the founders of the Association.
3. It supported the campaign against the orthodox practices in the Parsi religion.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
2 and 3 only
Correct Answer1, 2 and 3
Incorrect AnswerExplanation:
Narouji Furdonji, Dadabhai Naoroji, S.S. Bengalee, and others began religious reforms among the Parsis in Mumbai in the middle of the 19th century. Hence statement 2 is correct. x In 1851, they founded the Rahnumai Mazdayasnan Sabha, or Religious Reform Association. Hence statement 1 is not correct. x They played an important role in the spread of education, especially among girls. x They also campaigned against the orthodox practices of the Parsi religion. Hence statement 3 is correct. x In course of time, the Parsis became one of the most progressive sections of Indian society. x The message of reform was spread by the newspaper Rast Goftar (Truth-Teller). x Parsi religious rituals and practices were reformed and the Parsi creed was redefined. x In the social sphere, attempts were made to uplift the status of Parsi women through the removal of the purdah system, and raising the age of marriage and education. Gradually, the Parsis emerged as the most westernized section of Indian society.
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By: Parvesh Mehta