Mahatma Hansraj :An Unparalleled Warrior of Education and Social Reform(April 19, 1864 – November 15, 1938)

Mahatma Hansraj: An Unparalleled Warrior of Education and Social Reform



Mahatma Hansraj (April 19, 1864 – November 15, 1938) was a great Indian educationist, social reformer, and freedom fighter. He was a prominent leader of the Arya Samaj and one of the founding members of the Dayanand Anglo-Vedic (D.A.V.) educational institutions. Mahatma Hansraj dedicated his entire life to the spread of education and the eradication of social evils. His tireless efforts not only revolutionized the field of education but also awakened social and national consciousness.

Early Life and Education

Hansraj was born on April 19, 1864, in Bajwara village of Hoshiarpur district in Punjab, into a distinguished Khatri family. His father, Rai Mulraj, was a respected figure, and his mother, Ishwar Devi, was a devout woman. Hansraj's childhood was spent in simple surroundings, but his intelligence and keen desire to learn were evident from an early age.
His initial education took place in a local school, where he acquired knowledge of Hindi and Sanskrit. Subsequently, he enrolled in Mission College, Lahore, where he studied Western education and philosophy. It was during his college days that he was profoundly influenced by the ideas of Swami Dayanand Saraswati. Swami Dayanand's charismatic personality and the principles of the Arya Samaj changed the course of his life.

Association with Arya Samaj and the Beginning of the D.A.V. Movement

In 1882, Hansraj actively joined the Arya Samaj. After the demise of Swami Dayanand Saraswati, the leaders of the Arya Samaj decided to establish an educational institution to immortalize his memory and propagate his ideas. Mahatma Hansraj played a leading role in realizing this vision.
On June 1, 1886, the first Dayanand Anglo-Vedic (D.A.V.) School was established in Lahore. Mahatma Hansraj served as the honorary headmaster of this school for 25 years with selfless dedication. Due to his commitment, devotion, and efficient leadership, the school soon became a prestigious institution in the field of education. The aim of the D.A.V. schools was to harmonize Western education with Vedic knowledge and Indian culture, so that students could be inspired to stay connected to their roots while acquiring modern knowledge.

Contribution to the Field of Education

Mahatma Hansraj considered education the most important tool for the upliftment of society. He not only played a crucial role in the establishment of D.A.V. schools but also made tireless efforts to improve the standard of education and make it accessible to all sections of society. The D.A.V. schools established by him emphasized quality education, and special attention was paid to the character development of the students.
He also strived to awaken national consciousness through education. In D.A.V. schools, students were taught Indian history, culture, and patriotism, so that they could understand their duties towards the country and play an active role in the freedom struggle. Mahatma Hansraj believed that societal development was impossible without education, and therefore, he made the spread of education his life's mission.
Under his leadership, D.A.V. schools brought about a new revolution in the field of education not only in Punjab but throughout North India. These schools provided quality education to thousands of students and inspired them to become responsible citizens of the country.

Efforts for Social Reform

Mahatma Hansraj was not only an educationist but also an active social reformer. He continuously fought against the many evils prevalent in society, such as casteism, untouchability, child marriage, and the illiteracy of women. Inspired by the principles of the Arya Samaj, he made people aware of these social evils and encouraged them to organize and raise their voices against them.
He laid special emphasis on the education of women. He believed that until women were educated, the true development of society was not possible. Through his efforts, numerous D.A.V. women's colleges and schools were established, which provided women with the opportunity to attain higher education and gain a respectable place in society.
Mahatma Hansraj also did significant work for the upliftment of the untouchables. He advocated for their inclusion in the mainstream of society and for treating them with equality. Through his efforts, many schools and welfare programs were run for the Dalits.

Role in the Freedom Struggle

Mahatma Hansraj was a true patriot, and he actively participated in India's freedom struggle. He developed D.A.V. schools as centers of national consciousness, where students were educated in the values of patriotism. Many freedom fighters were products of D.A.V. institutions.
Mahatma Hansraj himself opposed the policies of the British government on several occasions and played an active role in national movements. He believed that only through education could the country be truly independent.

Personal Life and Principles

Mahatma Hansraj was a simple, selfless, and dedicated individual. He devoted his entire life to the service of others. He strictly adhered to the principles of the Arya Samaj and followed the path of truth, justice, and righteousness. He never took credit for his work and always inspired others to contribute to the service of society and the nation.
He believed that the purpose of education was not only to acquire knowledge but also to build character. Therefore, special attention was paid to moral education and discipline in D.A.V. schools.

Demise and Legacy

Mahatma Hansraj passed away on November 15, 1938. His demise was an irreparable loss to the field of Indian education and social reform. However, the vast network of D.A.V. institutions established by him still stands as a testament to his vision and dedication. Thousands of D.A.V. schools and colleges across India and abroad are providing quality education and carrying forward the ideals of Mahatma Hansraj.

Mahatma Hansraj was a great man who dedicated his entire life to education and social reform. His contributions can never be forgotten. He was not only a great educationist and social reformer but also a true patriot and a source of inspiration. His life will continue to remind us of selfless service, dedication, and the importance of education. Mahatma Hansraj is a luminary in Indian history whose light will always guide future generations.