Q. Who legally sanctioned widow remarriage in Kolhapur state in 1917?
Answer: Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj
Notes: Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj of Kolhapur was a pioneering social reformer who introduced several progressive measures in his state. In 1917, he took the groundbreaking step of legally sanctioning widow remarriage in Kolhapur, directly challenging orthodox Hindu customs of the time. He also worked for the abolition of the Devadasi system, implemented reservations in education and government jobs for backward classes, and promoted social equality. His actions influenced future reformers and helped lay the foundation for progressive social justice movements in Maharashtra.