Why did Dayanand Saraswati say go back to Vedas?

Dayanand Saraswati wanted to put society in touch with its roots. Going back to the Vedas was the best way to do it. This would also help in abolishing untouchability, idol worship and instill in the people the belief that there is only one God.

Dayanand Saraswati was a sanyasi (ascetic) from boyhood and a scholar. He believed in the infallible authority of the Vedas. Dayananda advocated the doctrine of Karma and Reincarnation.

For further reading check the following articles:

• List of Socio-Religious Movements
• Dayananda Saraswati – Arya Samaj
• Indian Education System During British Rule