Popularisation of Widow Remarriage and Prohibition of Child Marriage in India.

The popularisation of widow remarriage and prohibition of child marriage in India can be attributed to various social reform movements that took place during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Prior to these movements, widow remarriage was looked down upon in traditional Indian society and was often seen as a taboo. Widows were expected to observe strict codes of conduct, including wearing white clothes, avoiding makeup and jewelry, and living a life of seclusion. They were also expected to dedicate themselves to the memory of their deceased husbands and were often prohibited from remarrying.

However, the social reform movements of the 19th and early 20th centuries brought about a change in this mentality. Reformers such as Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar and Swami Vivekananda argued that widows had the right to remarry and live a fulfilling life.

They encouraged widows to educate themselves and assert their independence, and advocated for the legalization of widow remarriage.

Similarly, child marriage was a widespread practice in traditional Indian society.

It was believed that girls were ready for marriage once they reached puberty, and many were married off at a young age to older men. This often resulted in physical and emotional abuse, as well as the inability to continue education and pursue personal goals.

The social reform movements also addressed this issue and advocated for the prohibition of child marriage. They argued that child marriage was a violation of the rights of children and that it perpetuated gender inequality and social injustice. These efforts eventually led to the passing of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act in 2006, which made child marriage illegal in India.

Overall, the popularisation of widow remarriage and prohibition of child marriage in India can be attributed to the efforts of social reformers who fought for the rights and dignity of women and children in society. These movements played a crucial role in bringing about societal change and creating a more equal and just society.