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Though they propagated different religions, their ideas were remarkably similar. Let's look at one point: That all reformers have believed the caste system to be faulty is not the truth. Both these individuals have mentioned this fact in their own ways. Vivekanada says:
'From Buddha to Raja Ram Mohan Rai, each reformer has made the mistake of considering the caste-system as a religious set-up and has tried to break the bondage of the
castes
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Caste is not a religious organisation. In spite of the fanaticism of religious leaders, caste is a social organisation which is embedded in the Indian society. These organisations, after having offered their services to the country, have at present pervaded the Indian atmosphere with a rigidity. The only way to remove that rigidity is that the castes should return to the people, the social individuality which they - the people have lost'.
Shri Virchandbhai interprets this problem in a slightly different manner. In his learned forward to 'An unknown Life of Jesus Christ', while comparing the relationship of ancient India with other countries covering commerce, art, literature, religion, etc., he says about the caste system: 'I do not approve of the present standards by which the caste system has taken shape. But, like Dr. Leitner, (the Registrar of the University of Punjab) I am convinced that by preserving the caste system in its original form, we shall be preserving the inimitable cultural background of Indian art, Indian industry, etc. which can compete with the modern requirements and aspirations'.
Just as Bhagini Nivedita became the follower of Swami Vivekananda, Mrs. Howard was initiated by Virchandbhai.
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