2017-07-29 Sat

Since ancient times India has seen many great personalities; their thoughts and teachings gave a new perception to the Indian society. In the history of enlightened personalities, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar finds a rare niche. Vidyasagar had such a charisma that it still shines brightly.

Vidyasagar was a far-sighted philosopher and social reformer. He was also an educationist with a modern vision. He had a vast career of learning and was the first modernised refined man not only of Bengal but also of India.

On 26th September 1820, Vidyasagar was born and was known as Ishwar Chandra Bandyopadhyay. He studied Sanskrit and pursued his career in it. Later on, he entered service as Head Pandit of Fort William College. His first literary publication was ‘Betal Panchavingsati'.

Vidyasagar turned his attention to the educational and social reforms in the country. He led the movement supporting widow remarriage, the abolition of Polygamy and child marriage. He worked tirelessly for the benefit of the society.

His life was an example of dedication to the cause of education. He was a man on a mission, a man with a message.

Rabindranath Tagore once praised him as ‘One wonders how God, in the process of producing forty million Bengalis, produced a man'.

To remember and honour the 150th birth anniversary of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, India Post has issued a commemorative stamp in 1970.