समाजविचारक मनु (samajvicharak Manu)
By Ramesh S. Betai
Summary
Ramesh Betai’s article Samajvicharak Manu presents an analytical reconstruction of Manusmṛti through a sociological lens, challenging the rigid, ritualistic interpretations that have dominated traditional discourse. Betai argues that Manu should be viewed as a social philosopher, whose intent was to regulate social dynamics through a practical framework for living, rather than enforcing dogmatic or religious absolutism. He draws on comparative sources like The Discovery of India, Fundamentals of Sociology, and ancient Indian philosophical texts to show that Manu’s thoughts were rooted in the evolving realities of Indian society. The article emphasizes that Indian sociology must include abstract philosophical dimensions, as Indian tradition inherently links human life with broader cosmic and ethical principles. Betai calls for a reinterpretation of Manu’s work—not as an inflexible legal code, but as a dynamic social document aligned with Indian values of continuity, adaptability, and harmony between individual and society
Conclusion
Ramesh Betai’s article Samajvicharak Manu offers a fresh sociological perspective on the Manusmṛti, presenting Manu as a social philosopher rather than a rigid lawgiver. By emphasizing the text's alignment with evolving societal realities, Betai advocates for a reinterpretation that highlights its dynamic, adaptable approach to social harmony, urging Indian sociology to integrate abstract philosophical dimensions in understanding human life and societal structures. रमेश बेताई का आलेख समाजविचारक मनु मनुस्मृति को एक नवीन समाजशास्त्रीय दृष्टिकोण से प्रस्तुत करता है, जिसमें मनु को एक कठोर विधि‑निर्माता की जगह एक सामाजिक दार्शनिक के रूप में देखा गया है। ग्रंथ की उस प्रवृत्ति पर बल देते हुए जो बदलती सामाजिक वास्तविकताओं के साथ सामंजस्य स्थापित करती है, बेताई इसकी पुनर्व्याख्या के पक्ष में हैं—ऐसी व्याख्या जो इसके गतिशील और अनुकूलनशील दृष्टिकोण को सामाजिक समरसता के आधार के रूप में रेखांकित करे। वे यह भी आग्रह करते हैं कि भारतीय समाजशास्त्र को मानव जीवन और सामाजिक संरचनाओं की समझ में दार्शनिक‑अमूर्त आयामों को सम्मिलित करना चाहिए।