Abstract

Social reform movements have played a crucial role in shaping modern India by challenging traditional social structures and advocating for progressive change. These movements emerged as a response to prevailing social injustices such as caste discrimination gender inequality and religious orthodoxy. From the 19th century onwards reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy Jyotirao Phule Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar and B.R. Ambedkar initiated movements that aimed to eradicate social evils and promote a more inclusive society. This paper examines the key social reform movements in India analyzing their objectives impact and lasting influence on Indian society. It discusses the abolition of Sati the promotion of widow remarriage caste reform movements and womens rights initiatives. The study also explores the contribution of movements such as the Brahmo Samaj Arya Samaj the Self-Respect Movement and Dalit empowerment movements in reshaping Indias socio-political landscape.