Swami Dayananda Saraswati was a prominent Indian philosopher and social reformer born in 1824. He is best known for founding the Arya Samaj, a Hindu reform movement that aimed to promote values such as equality, education, and social justice. Dayananda emphasized the importance of the Vedas, advocating for a return to the original teachings of Hinduism. He played a significant role in the revival of Hindu culture and spirituality, challenging superstitions and rituals that he believed distorted true faith. His teachings encouraged critical thinking and self-reliance, influencing many reformers and movements in India, including the Indian independence movement.