He devoted his life to reforming Indian society on the basis of a selective appeal to ancient Hindu tradition. He founded the Atmiya Sabha (Friendly Association) to serve as a platform for his liberal ideas. He evolved a monotheistic form of worship, adapting the ethical and humanitarian aspects of Christianity. He attacked idolatry and popular practices, including the burning of widows (suttee) and polygamy, discrimination against women, and the caste system. He also helped to found the Hindu College in Calcutta (1817) and several secondary schools in which English educational methods were employed. In 1828 he founded the Brahmo Samaj (Society of God), whose influence on Indian intellectual, social, and religious life has been profound.