AGARTALA, Sep 26 (TIWN): All India Democratic Students' Organisation (DSO) has paid tribute to Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar on his birth anniversary who was a legendary educationist, a Sanskrit scholar and a social reformer who not only changed the Bengali alphabet and type but also challenged Hindu orthodoxy by playing a pivotal role in passing the Widow Remarriage Act. He also fought for women’s education and vigorously challenged the barbaric practice of child marriage.

Chief Minister Biplab Deb who is at Delhi said via social media, “Tributes to great philosopher, writer & Bengali polymath Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar on his birth anniversary.He played key role in Bengali literature & more importantly he is remembered for his efforts in bringing Widow Remarriage Act, 1856”.

Standing tall against the conservative power centres of Hindu society, Vidyasagar was a man who was way ahead of his times. In light of the desecration of his statue, it is time to remind ourselves about this visionary of modern Indian history.

Born on 26 September 1820 into a poor Brahmin family in Birsing village of Midnapore district, West Bengal, Ishwar Chandra Bandyopadhyay was only six-years-old when he was sent to be educated in Kolkata.

He lived in the house of a family friend Bhagabat Charan in the Burrabazar area.

Vidyasagar was no ordinary student, passing each exam with flying colours, while also finding a way to support himself financially as a tutor for kids in another wealthy household. With limited means, he continued his education at the Sanskrit College of Kolkata, where he studied for 12 years.

He then picked up a law degree and went on to join Fort William College as the head of their Sanskrit Department. After five years, in 1846, Vidyasagar joined the Sanskrit College as principal.

Here, he opened up admissions to students from other castes, besides Brahmin and Vaidya.