The Satyashodhak Samaj was founded on 24 September 1873 in Pune, Maharashtra, by Jyotirao Phule. The movement sought to end caste-based discrimination, oppose Brahmanical dominance, and secure social, political, and educational rights for Shudras, Atishudras, Dalits, and women through reason, equality, and education.

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• Jyotirao Phule founded Satyashodhak Samaj in 1873 to challenge caste hierarchy and promote social equality among Shudras, Atishudras, Dalits, and women.

• The movement actively opposed Brahmanical dominance and sought to eliminate caste-based religious rituals controlled exclusively by upper-caste priests.

• Savitribai Phule played a central role in promoting girls’ education, women’s empowerment, and broader social reforms in colonial Maharashtra.

• Education was emphasized as the primary tool for social reform, encouraging rational thinking, self-respect, and awareness among marginalized communities.

• The Samaj promoted simple, priest-free religious and social practices to reduce dependence on caste-based religious authorities.

• Jyotirao Phule and followers encouraged social equality by challenging traditional norms, advocating justice, and improving opportunities for oppressed classes.

• Narayan Meghaji Lokhande contributed by connecting social reform with labour rights, improving working-class conditions, and raising awareness about workers’ struggles.

• The Satyashodhak Samaj influenced future anti-caste and Dalit movements, leaving a lasting impact on Maharashtra’s social reform and egalitarian discourse.