Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar (Bangla: ঈশ্বর চন্দ্র বিদ্যাসাগর) (1820-1891) was a polymath. Born in Midnapore, West Bengal, he is widely considered as one of the most glowing figures of the Bengal Renaissance of 19th century. He was an academic, philosopher, educator, entaprenuer, writer, reformer and philanthropist.
Vidyasagar and Gender Issues
Perhaps his greatest legacy is his unflinching resolve to change the plight of Indian women, specially in his native Bengal.
He almost single-handedly started the rule of widow remarriage.
Vidyasagar and Indian Education
Vidyasagar was responsible for lot of reforms in the educational system in India in the 19th century.
Literature
Vidyasar is often known as the father of modern Bangla.
Philanthrophy
Vidyasagar was known to be a generous philanthrophist. The most cited example was when Vidyasagar helped Michael Madhusudan Dutt, one of the most notable poets of 19th century Bengal, when the latter was facing starvation, mainly due to his reckless lifestyle.
Important Works
- Literay Works:
- Bhrantibilash
- Betal Panchavinsati
- Reform Monologues:
- Bidhobabivah (on widows' right to remarry) the first exposure (1855)
- Bidhobabivah - the Second Book (1855)
- Bahubivah - (on banning polygamy) the first exposure (1871)
- Bahubivah - the Second Book (1873)
- Balyabivah (flaws of child marriage) - unknown publication date
- Educational books
- Bornoporichoy
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