Modern Hinduism History
Explore the modern period of Hinduism: British colonial rule, independence movement, reform movements, and contemporary Hindu practices in a changing world.
Historical Timeline
British Colonial Period (1757-1947 CE)
Period of British rule and its impact on Hindu society and religion.
Battle of Plassey
Beginning of British political control in India.
Christian Missionary Activity
British allow Christian missionaries in India.
Brahmo Samaj Founded
Raja Ram Mohan Roy establishes Hindu reform movement.
Arya Samaj Founded
Swami Dayananda Saraswati establishes reform movement.
World Parliament of Religions
Swami Vivekananda introduces Hinduism to the West.
Independence Movement (1885-1947 CE)
Period of nationalist struggle and Hindu participation in freedom movement.
Indian National Congress
Formation of major nationalist organization.
Partition of Bengal
British divide Bengal, sparking nationalist protests.
Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi leads non-violent independence movement.
Indian Independence
India gains independence, partition creates Pakistan.
Post-Independence Period (1947-2000 CE)
Period of nation-building and Hindu cultural revival.
Nehru Era
Secular democracy and modernization policies.
Indira Gandhi
Socialist policies and emergency period.
Hindu Nationalism Rise
Growth of Hindu nationalist political parties.
Economic Liberalization
India opens economy to global markets.
Contemporary Period (2000-Present)
Hinduism in the 21st century, facing new challenges and opportunities.
Global Hinduism
Hindu diaspora and international influence grows.
Modi Government
Hindu nationalist BJP comes to power.
Digital Hinduism
Technology and social media transform religious practice.
Key Figures
Key Contributions:
- Brahmo Samaj founder
- Social reform
- Women's rights
- Modern education
Key Contributions:
- Arya Samaj movement
- Vedic revival
- Social reform
- Anti-caste movement
Key Contributions:
- Vedanta philosophy
- International Hinduism
- Social service
- Youth empowerment
Key Contributions:
- Non-violent resistance
- Hindu-Muslim unity
- Social reform
- Independence movement
Key Contributions:
- Integral yoga
- Evolutionary philosophy
- Spiritual nationalism
- Literary works
Key Contributions:
- Vedanta teaching
- Global mission
- Educational institutions
- Spiritual organization
Reform Movements
Key Features:
Key Features:
Key Features:
Contemporary Issues
Key Aspects:
Key Aspects:
Key Aspects:
Study Resources
Essential modern Hindu texts:
- • Reformist writings
- • Political manifestos
- • Autobiographies
- • Contemporary literature
Understanding modern India:
- • British colonialism
- • Independence movement
- • Nation-building
- • Globalization
Current challenges and debates:
- • Religious reform
- • Social justice
- • Political participation
- • Cultural preservation
Continue Your Study
The modern period of Hinduism shows the dynamic nature of the tradition as it adapts to changing social, political, and cultural circumstances. Understanding this era is crucial for comprehending contemporary Hindu practices and beliefs.