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RAJA RAMMOHAN ROY

Rammohan in England

It is wrong to cross the ocean and go to the other countries! Such a view appears laughable today.

But, a hundred and fifty year ago, it was believed that it was wrong and irreligious for a Hindus to cross the seas.

Rammohan was one of the first Indians who rejected this idea and went to England. The allowances granted by the British to the Mughal King of Delhi, Akbar the Second, was very small. He had t submit a representation to the King of England to increase it. The Mughal King decided to send Rammohan to England at his expense. Before he left for England, the King gave him the title of ‘Raja’.

The second reason for Raja Rammohan Roy’s visit to England was to plead for the abolition of ‘Suttee’ before the Parliament.

Many people objected to Rammohan’s visit to England. Some British officers also opposed his going to England. But his fame had already reached England.

When Rammohan landed at Liverpool, the leading citizens were there to welcome him. The famous historian William Rathbone who was laid up with paralysis sent his son. He fulfilled his last desire by inviting him to his house and by talking to him. Several associations honored him. He visited France also. Everywhere scholars appreciated his learning.

Though the allowances of the King was not finally settled, it was decided that he could be given three lakhs rupees annually. Rammohan’s efforts for the abolition of ‘Sahagamana’ were also successful. On the day when the Bill was passed by the Parliament, the joy of Rammohan knew no bounds.

Rammohan was very rich. He was a great man who spent his money for other people and for his country. In Calcutta, even foreigners borrowed money from him in times of need. Such a rich man was reduced in England to total dependence upon others, even for food. His health broke down. The main reason for his financial difficulties was that the firm in which he had invested his capital became insolvent.

Out of spite, some people filed a suit against Rammohan and his son accusing them of misusing money. Rammohan had to spend money like water to prove that he was not guilty. Though he got justice, he lost his entire honor and status in England. Even the financial help from his son stopped. Moreover, one or two persons in England cheated him. He became worried. He fell ill and became bed-ridden.

Some people, who had respect for him looked after him, like relatives. Reputed doctors treated him. But his health did not improve.

Rammohan passed away on 27th of September 1833.

A friend of Rammohan visited England in 1843. He removed the coffin of Rammohan from Stapleton Grove to Arno’s Vale, the commentary on the outskirts of Bristol, and buried it there. A memorial in Indian style was raised over his tomb.

It is a hundred and forty years since Rammohan died. But his memory is still green in the minds of Indians. He was an intellectual who tried to lead India to modernity. He taught the Hindus to give up meaningless beliefs and customs. He was the lamp that led Hindus to the essence of Hinduism. His memory itself guides us to a noble life.

About Raja Rammohan Roy
Introduction
Birth And Boyhood
Education
Travels
Sanskrit Education
Rammohan And Religion
At Rangpur
'Atmiya Sabha'
Regard For Hinduism
Education For The Progress Of The Country
With The Poor
Service To Literature
'Suttee System' or 'Sahagamana'
Love Of Independence
The First Editor
For Justice And Equality
Brahmo Samaj
You are Here! Rammohun In England