Brahmo Samaj

A 19th-century Hindu reform movement that has its roots in the Hindu apologist and reformer Rammohun Roy (1772-1833) who was impressed by Western achievements but believed that Indian spirituality was greater. The theistic movement, influenced by Islam, Christianity, and modern science, sought a return to the purity of Hindu worship through a rejection of idol-worship, an emphasis on monotheism, and a reform of Hindu social practices. Roy's most important reform was to convince the British that sati, the practice of widow burning, was not part of original dharma and should be banned. The movement continued, with much division, into the 20th century, but quickly lost members and influence.