Which of the following statements about Theosophicai Society arc correct ? 1. Its founders were non-Indians. 2. Its advocates were in favour of the revival of Hinduism. 3. It advocated for the adoption of rational and scientific approach based on western ideas, 4. It helped people to overcome the sense of false pride. Select the correct answer using the code given below :

The Theosophical Society was founded in 1875 in New York by non-Indians, specifically Madame H.P. Blavatsky (Russian) and Colonel H.S. Olcott (American) [2]. Statement 1 is therefore correct. The society's advocates were strongly in favor of the revival and strengthening of ancient religions, particularly Hinduism, Buddhism, and Zoroastrianism . They glorified Indian philosophical traditions like the Upanishads and Vedanta, making Statement 2 correct [1]. However, Statement 3 is incorrect because the movement was a reaction against Western rationalism, seeking spiritual salvation in Eastern mysticism rather than advocating for Western scientific approaches [2]. Statement 4 is incorrect because, while the movement provided self-respect to Indians against colonial rule, it was often criticized for giving Indians a 'false sense of pride' in outdated or backward-looking traditions rather than helping them overcome it [4].

Sources

1. [1] Rajiv Ahir. A Brief History of Modern India (2019 ed.). SPECTRUM. > Chapter 9: A General Survey of Socio-Cultural Reform Movements > The Theosophical Movement > p. 233
2. [2] History , class XI (Tamilnadu state board 2024 ed.) > Chapter 19: Towards Modernity > Theosophical Society (1875) > p. 302
3. [4] Modern India ,Bipin Chandra, History class XII (NCERT 1982 ed.)[Old NCERT] > Chapter 13: Growth of New India Religious and Social Reform After 1858 > Theosophical Society > p. 221