UPSC CAPF AC 2019 Paper

Because of his vast knowledge on different subjects, the title Vidyasagar was given to Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar by the people of his village. Vidyasagar means an ocean of learning (“vidya” – learning, “sagar” – ocean).
According to some sources, he received the title ‘‘Vidyasagar’’ from Sanskrit College, Calcutta (from where he graduated), due to his excellent performance in Sanskrit studies and philosophy.
Vidyasagar wrote a book in favour of remarriage of Hindu widows, and quoted passages from the Sastras in support of his contention. He challenged the Brahminical authorities and proved that widow remarriage is sanctioned by Vedic scriptures. He took his arguments to the British Authorities and his pleas were heard when the Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act, 1856 or Act XV, 1856, was decreed on July 26, 1856.