Revisiting farazi movement: Religious reform and peasant resistance in colonial Bengal

The Farazi Movement was one of the most significant religious, socio-economic and agrarian movements in 19th century Bengal. The movement, led by Shariatullah and his son, Dudu Miyan, sought to purify Islamic practices by emphasizing the strict adherence of the ‘Farz’ or ‘Fard’ (obligatory religious duties) and later resists the socio-economic oppression experienced Bengal under Colonial rule. The Farazi Movement mobilized thousands of poor and peasants in eastern Bengal against the ruthless zamindars, nilkars (indigo planters) and British authorities. Through religious mobilization, organizational networks, and agrarian protest, the Farazi Movement became a significant early expression of anti-colonial colonial consciousness in Bengal. This article examines the origin, ideology, leadership, socio-economic context, and historical importance of the Farazi Movement, arguing that the movement represented both a religious revival and a form of peasant resistance against colonial oppression and exploitation.