Jyotirao Phule as the founder of Satya Shodhak Samaj has worked towards the welfare of women. When he actually set up the Satya Shodhak Samaj, his wife - Savitribai Phule became the head of the women`s section which included ninety female members, added to that she also worked tirelessly as a school teacher for girls.
Deenbandhu publication which happens to be the mouthpiece of Satya Shodhak Samaj also played a major role in the movement. After his death, the movement did not stop, as his spirited followers continued with the movement to the remotest part of Indian state of Maharashtra. The ruler of Kholapur princely state - Shahu Maharaj, provided a lot of moral and financial support to Satya Shodhak Samaj. In its newly formed avatar, the party carried on the work of superstition removal vigorously. Many times it degenerated in hate sprouting against Brahmins as a caste.
Jyotirao strongly believed that promotion of equality, brotherhood, human dignity, economic justice and value devoid of exploitation is essential towards new social system. He vehemently attacked the concept of blind faith for society and religion. He criticized the misleading myths that circled the mind of women, shudras and ati-shudras. Yielding to fate or all mighty, astrology, numerology and other such rituals, sacredness, god-men, etc. was considered irrational and silly.
Jyotirao also subjected the sacred texts and religious behaviour to test rationalism. He also characterized his faith as outwardly religious but in spirit politically motivated movements. He also seriously accused them of uploading the teachings of religions and also refusing to rationally analyse religious teachings.
Jyotirao Phule firmly believed in overthrowing the social system where man has been consciously made dependent on others, illiterate, ignorant and poor, with a view to exploiting him. According to Phule, blind faith and eradicating of the same formed the prime agenda for broader socio-economic exploitation. Mere advice, education and alternative ways of living are not enough, unless the economic framework of exploitation comes to an end.
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