Was founded by Madame Blavatsky & Col. Olcott in New York in 1875 to revive the ancient religions of Asia mainly Hinduism, Buddhism & Zoroastrianism.
Though Adyar (near Madras) became its headquarters in 1882.
propagating Hindu beliefs, reincarnation & Karma.
The beliefs of the Theosophical Society were a strange mixture of religion, philosophy & occultism.
It preached universal brotherhood of men irrespective of distinction of caste, creed, race or sex.
It promoted a sense of national pride among the Indians.
It did commendable work in the field of education.
Its most successful venture in this direction was the opening of the Central Hindu College at Varanasi in 1898.
The Theosophical Society proved to be a very potent factor “in the awakening & self-respect of Indians”.
Madame Annie Besant, an Irish Lady joined the Theosophical Society in 1882 & came to India in 1893.
Dr. Besant became the President of the Theosophical Society in 1907, after the death of Col. Olcott.
She dedicated herself in politics & joined Indian National Congress in 1915 & became its first woman President in 1917.
Started the Home Rule League in September 1916 on the pattern of the Irish Home Rule League & propagated progressive views through her newspaper “New India” & “Common Weal“.
She was also instrumental in bringing Tilak back into Congress at Lucknow session (1916).
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