AN ANALYSIS OF ISHWAR CHANDRA VIDYASAGAR AS PIONEER OF WOMAN EDUCATION

The eighteenth and nineteenth century are the most resplendent period in the history of India. During this time, India witnessed the holistic reawakening of the people in the world of new ideals, new thoughts and aspirations in every dimensions of life. The regeneration of India got its expression in Bengal and so this resurgence is called Bengal Renaissance Movement. Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar played a prominent and vital role in Bengal Renaissance. He also advocated individual liberty and freedom of the press. He was a staunch fighter for the rights and honour of women .Vidyasagar realized a change may be said to have come over the spirit of the times and this may be reckoned as a new era in the history of education on Bengal. He also propagated the ideal from the Shastas ,KanyapyebamPalaniyasikshaniyaitayatnatah- Daughters also are to be reared up and educated with care together with sons. Vidyasagar left no stone unturned to unfetter women from the bondages. He also fought for widow remarriage, abolition of polygamy, child marriage and female education. Educated women are the weapons who yield positive impact on the Indian society through their contributions of home and professional fields. Education as means of empowerment of women can bring about a positive attitudinal change. Vidyasagar was pioneer in woman empowerment who realized way back in 18 th century that unless and until resurrection and empowerment of woman is done reform or renaissance was impossible to bear fruit in the society.