Introduction

• On April 5, 1825, an anonymous correspondent of the Calcutta Journal provided insightful analyses of social citizenry in colonial Calcutta. The residents were classified into three categories: those in darkness, indifferent to knowledge and true religion; those content with the status quo; and those opposing British rule for challenging ancient superstitions. 
• While the rhetoric and phrasing resembled Raja Rammohan Roy, he would not fit into any of these categories. Rammohan, an advocate of interminable progress under British rule, saw it as providential and actively engaged in its mediation. 
• Rammohan argued that colonialism prevented Britain from replicating its social and political institutions in India, leading to distinct practices in Britain and India. Responsible public opinion needed to bridge the gap between precept and practice. 
• The Bengali intelligentsia, including Rammohan, paradoxically supported and criticized British rule due to the quick and dramatic political transition in Bengal. 
• Rammohan faced misapprehension, malice, and controversy. Some interpreted his work as an early antidote to Christian proselytization, while Marxist critics viewed him as an ambivalent modernizer. 
• Born into a high-ranking Brahmin family with a history of serving the Mughals, Rammohan later served Europeans, widening his circle of friends. His family’s secular service influenced his familiarity with Indo-Persian culture. 
• Rammohan settled in Calcutta in 1814, befriending European gentlemen and engaging in debates with Hindu pundits, supporting anti-Sati legislation, and showing interest in free trade. 
• Between 1814 and 1830, Rammohan authored over 60 tracts and pamphlets, contributing to modern Bengali prose. He embroiled himself in debates over Hinduism, questioned Trinitarian Christianity, and addressed civic grievances. 
• Rammohan’s visit to England in 1830 served multiple agendas, including countering Hindu orthodoxy propaganda and advocating for the Reform Bill. He interacted with notable figures, such as Bentham and Owen, and appeared before Select Committees on India. 
• Raja Rammohan Roy died on December 27, 1833, after a brief illness. His legacy includes contributions to modern Bengali prose, advocacy for social reform, and early responses to colonialism.