---
title: "Prarthana Samaj: Reform Movement | Model Diplomat"
description: "The Prarthana Samaj was an 1867 Bombay reform movement for monotheism and caste reform, led by M.G. Ranade. See how it differed from the Brahmo Samaj."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/prarthana-samaj"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- The Prarthana Samaj was a Hindu socio-religious reform movement founded in Bombay in 1867 that promoted monotheistic worship, caste reform, and the uplift of women.
- How did the Prarthana Samaj differ from the Brahmo Samaj?
- Who were the key leaders of the Prarthana Samaj?
- What were the main social reforms championed by the Prarthana Samaj?
- Why is the Prarthana Samaj considered a gradualist movement?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

The Prarthana Samaj was a Hindu socio-religious reform movement founded in Bombay in 1867 that promoted monotheistic worship, caste reform, and the uplift of women.

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In 1906 Vitthal Ramji Shinde, a Prarthana Samaj reformer, founded the Depressed Classes Mission in Bombay to provide education and social services to untouchable communities across the Bombay Presidency.

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