Women's Freedom in the Thought of Lokendranand Saraswati: A Political Re-reading

Abstract

Through his reinterpretation of the Vedas, Swami Dayanand Saraswati advocated the eradication of social evils, superstitions, and false beliefs. He strongly supported women's education, freedom in marriage, widow remarriage, religious rights, and active participation in society. This study critically examines the values of women's freedom embedded in Swami Dayanand Saraswati's thought from a political perspective. It argues that his ideas should be understood not only as instruments of social reform but also as a foundation for political consciousness and women's empowerment. An analysis of the principles of liberty, equality, and social responsibility reflected in his philosophy reveals that his Vedic vision offers a fresh ideological framework for understanding feminist discourse within the tradition of Indian political thought.