Lekh Ram | |
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Born | |
Died | 4 March 1897 | (aged 38)
Cause of death | Assassination |
Known for |
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Pandit Lekh Ram (April 1858 – 6 March 1897) was a 19th-century social reformer, publicist, and writer from Punjab, India. He was the leader of the radical wing within the Arya Samaj,[1][2] an Indian Hindu reform movement. He was known for his criticism of the caste system, superstitions, and blind faith prevalent in Hindu society. He also advocated for the education and empowerment of women.[3] He is also known particularly for his encounters with Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the founder of the Ahmadiyya movement, and as a subject of his death prophecy. Lekh Ram's outspoken views and writings made him a controversial figure, and he faced opposition and violence from conservative Hindus and Muslims. His assassination by an unidentified assailant on 6 March 1897 is believed by Ahmadi Muslims to have occurred in accordance with Ahmad's prophecy concerning him.[4]