Creation of Satya Shodhak Samaj

In 1873, Jyotiba Phule founded Satya Shodhak Samaj (Society of Truth Seekers). He embarked on a systematic deconstruction of existing beliefs and history, only to rebuild a near-equal version. Jyotirao Phule denounced the ancient Hindu scriptures of the Vedas. He traces the history of Brahmanism through several other ancient texts and revealed it as an exploitative and inhumane practice to maintain their social dominance by suppressing the “shudra” and “antishdra” of society.

He blamed Brahmin for enacting the law. The purpose of  Satya Shodhak Samaj was to decontaminate society from caste discrimination and to remove the stigma that was inflicted by the Brahmin. Jyotirao Phule was the first person who used the word “Dalit” which refers to all those who the Brahmin considered untouchable and lower caste. Satya Shodhak Samaj membership was open to everyone, regardless of caste or rank.

Several written records even show that they welcomed the participation of Jews as members of Samaj, and in 1876 “Satya Shodak Samaji” boasted  316 members. In 1868, Jyotirao decided to set up a common aquarium in front of his house to show his comprehensive attitude towards all and wanted to have dinner with everyone, regardless of caste.

Jyotirao Govindrao Phule, also known as Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, was an Indian social activist, thinker, anti-caste social reformer, and writer from Maharashtra. Jyotirao Govindrao Phule was born in Pune in 1827. His father’s name was Govindrao Phule and his mother was Chimnabai. He was born to a family that belonged to the Mali Caste. In the four varna system caste, they were placed within the Sudras or the lower ranking class. Jyotiba Phule died on November 28, 1890.

The turning point in his life came in 1848 when he attended the wedding of a friend who was a Brahmin. Jyotiba Phule attended a regular wedding procession but was later accused and insulted by his friend’s parents. They told him, that as part of Shudra’s caste, he should be wise enough to leave these rituals and should leave the ceremony. This case was unfair in the caste system and had a profound effect on Jyotiba Phule.