Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar

Social reformer who transformed Bengali education and women's rights

Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar (1820-1891) was a Bengali polymath whose reforms reshaped Indian society. As an educator, he simplified Bengali script to make literacy accessible, creating the "Vidyasagari" typeface still used today. He established 36 schools across Bengal and pioneered girls' education, teaching female students at Vidyasagar College. His greatest achievement was the 1856 "Act XV of 1856" that legalized Hindu widow remarriage - a practice previously punishable by death.

Vidyasagar's 1859 publication "Barnaparichay" became India's first modern textbook, emphasizing critical thinking over rote memorization. He developed a system of scholarships for poor students and created job training programs for women. His "Sarasvati" publishing house produced over 500 books in accessible vernacular Bengali.

Today, his legacy lives through institutions like the Vidyasagar Government College and the annual Vidyasagar Award. His work is studied at the Calcutta Historical Society, and his portrait appears on Indian currency. Modern scholars like Dr. Supriya Bhattacharya continue analyzing his contributions to social justice.