The Arya Samaj Movement in South Africa

Historical review of Arya Samaj’s and Hindu reformist activities, South Africa, scholarly. Primarily 20th Century
Although the Arya Samaj was initially a religious organization, it became a major force in India’s secular and religious struggle for cultural and social self-determination. It was founded in 1875, which presaged the independence of India in 1947. Although this work is not intended to be a comprehensive examination of the movement, it provides an overview of its development and philosophy through the lens of Swami Dayanand Sarasvati’s work. It is a source of pride to see the complex array of institutions and programs that were established by the Samaj, as well as the historical forces that shaped the movement. One of many socio-religious movements that were established in the nineteenth century was the Arya Samaj. However, it was responsible for building some of the most prestigious educational institutions in northern India. Emigrant Indian communities living in South Africa, Guyana and Mauritius felt the repercussions. This small religious sect was founded in 1996 and has since grown to be a significant religious denomination. The Arya Pratinidhi Sabha in South Africa is one of the most prominent Hindu organizations that has influence over the north Indian section of the Hindu population.