Emergence of religious movements

• The Bhakti movement refers to the theistic devotional trend that emerged in medieval India. Sufism may be best described as a practice of asceticism, which through belief of the nearness of God.

Bhakti Movement

• The concept of Bhakti originated in the 6th century AD but gained widespread popularity during the medieval period across India.
• The Alvars (Vaishnavites) and Nayanars (Shaivites) played a significant role in popularizing the Bhakti cult in South India.

• In the Tamil region, there were Siddhas who embraced a monotheistic stance and condemned idolatry.
• Bhakti Movement saints proposed three paths (margas) for achieving salvation:
  • Gyan Marga
  • Karma Marga
  • Bhakti Marga

Causes for the Emergence of Bhakti Movement

• The Bhakti Movement adopted local languages for preaching and rejected the caste system. Initially rooted in the equality of all human beings, this movement transcended social barriers.
• The simple lifestyle of Bhakti saints gained immense popularity in Southern India, eventually displacing Jainism and Buddhism as the predominant religions in the region.
• Emergence of Bhakti Movement in the North was spurred by factors such as economic upliftment of the lower class, particularly artisans, and the influence of Islam's doctrines of monotheism and equality. 
• The movement's emphasis on self-surrender and opposition to idolatry rituals and fasts appealed to a broad cross-section of the population.

Nayanars and Alvars

• The period from the seventh to the ninth century in South India witnessed the rise of religious movements led by the Nayanars (devotees of Shiva) and Alvars (devotees of Vishnu).
• The Alvars, numbering 63, and Nayanars, numbering 121, hailed from diverse castes, including those traditionally considered untouchable, like the Pulalyar and the Panars.
• Critically opposed to Buddhists and Jains, they found inspiration in the themes of love and bravery from Sangam literature (Tamil literature).
• Between the 10th and 12th centuries, Chola and Pandya kings constructed elaborate temples around shrines frequented by the saint-poets, reinforcing the connections between the Bhakti tradition and temple worship.
• Bhakti saints were classified into two schools, Nirguna and Saguna, based on their differing conceptualizations of God.

Bhakti Saints

Shankaracharya (AD 788-822)

• Born in Kalady, Shankaracharya, a disciple of Govindacharya, authored significant works like Govindum Stotra.
• Teaching concepts of Maya (illusion), Advaita philosophy, and the significance of Vedanta, he established four Mathas at Badrinath, Puri, Sringeri, and Dwarka.
• Emphasizing knowledge (Gyan) as the path to salvation, his famous quotes include "Ekameva Adviteeyam Brahma" and "Brahma Satyam Jagat Mithya Jivo Brahmatra Naparaha."
• Propounding Nirgunabrahman (God without attributes) and Advaita philosophy, he is known as the Pseudo-Buddha and a savior of modern Hinduism.

Advaita Philosophy

• Advaita posits that Brahman is the sole reality, and the universe is not real; Brahman is the essence that grants existence.
• Jnana yoga, the path of knowledge, is considered by Advaita Vedanta as the means to Moksha, freedom from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.
• Shankaracharya wrote commentaries on the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Brahmasutras of Badrayana.

Ramanujacharya (AD 1017-1137)

• A Tamil Vaishnavite saint born in Sriperumbudur near Chennai, Ramanujacharya advocated the philosophy of Vishishtadvaita.
• He authored Vedanta Samgraha and commentaries on Brahmasutras and Bhagavad Gita.
• Ramanujacharya believed that reality includes God, the soul, and matter, with God being the inner substance and the rest his attributes.
• Distinguishing himself from pure dualistic worship, Ramanujacharya opposed Shankara's Mayawad and founded the Shrivaishnava sect
• Ramanuja advocated the Prabattimarg, the path of self-surrender to God, and expounded his views on salvation in works like Gita Bhasya and Vedantasara. 

Madhavacharya (AD 13th Century)

• Madhavacharya, a Kannada Vaishnavite saint, introduced the philosophy of Dvaita. He wrote commentaries on significant Hindu scriptures, such as the Bhagavad Gita and the Brahmasutra, and established the Brahma Sampradaya. His works include Gita Bhashya, Brahmasutra Bhashya, Anu Bhashya, Karma Nirnaya, and Vishnu Tattva Nirnaya.

Dvaita

• This philosophy asserts that the Universe is a reality with distinct differences rather than an illusion. God, soul, and matter are considered distinct entities that cannot be reduced to one another.

Nimbaraka (AD 13th Century)

• Nimbaraka, a Telugu Vaishnavite saint and disciple of Ramanujacharya, founded the Dvaita-Advaita School of Thought, balancing between Advaita and Vishishtadvaita. He authored Vedanta and Dashasloki. The philosophy of Bheda/Abheda (difference/non-difference) posits that the world and Brahman are equally real, with the world being an integral part of Brahman.

Vallabhacharya (AD 1479-1531)

• A devotional philosopher, Vallabhacharya, born into a Telugu Brahmin family in Banaras, founded the philosophy of Shuddhadvaita.
• Propagating his doctrine of Bhakti through devotion to God Krishna, he established the path of grace known as Pushtimarg.
• Vallabhacharya also established the Rudra Sampradaya, playing a significant role alongside his student Surdas in fostering the growth of the Krishna cult in Northern India.

Nirguna Saints

The term "nirguna" conveys the idea of being without form and without qualities.

Guru Ravidas (AD 1377-1528)

• Guru Ravidas (AD 1377-1528), a North Indian poet of the Bhakti Movement, left behind significant literary works, including the Adi Granth of Sikhs and the Panchvani.
• Belonging to an untouchable caste, Ravidas endured numerous atrocities. Regarded as a disciple of the Bhakti saint-poet Ramananda and a contemporary of Kabir, he envisioned the concept of Begampura—a city free from sorrow—and a society where caste and class ceased to matter.
• One of Ravidas's notable disciples was the saint Mirabai.

Kabir (AD 1440-1510)

• A disciple of Ramananda, Kabir's writings significantly influenced the Bhakti Movement in Hinduism, and his verses are incorporated into Sikhism's scripture, Adi Granth.
• Raised by a Muslim weaver after being abandoned by his Brahmin mother, Kabir is considered the greatest mystic saint, with his followers known as Kabirpanthis. Important disciples included Raidas (a tanner), Guru Nanak (a Khatri merchant), and Dhanna (a Jat peasant).
• Kabir stressed the equality of all individuals before God and vehemently criticized idol worship, pilgrimages, ceremonies, the caste system, and the practice of untouchability. He also advocated for Hindu-Muslim unity.
• Proficient in yogic techniques, Kabir believed that devotion to God was a potent path to salvation. His works, such as Sabad, Bijak, Doha, Holi, and Rekhtal, along with verses from other saints like Namdev, Raidas, Dhanna, and Pipa, were included in Adi Granth. His teachings focused on Ram Bhakti.

Bijak

• The most renowned compilation of Kabir's compositions is known as Bijak.
• This sacred scripture holds significance for followers of the Kabirpanthi religion, representing one of the earliest major texts in modern Hindi. The term "Bijak" is derived from "Bija," signifying a document containing sacred texts.

Guru Nanak (AD 1469-1539)

• The first Sikh Guru and founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak was born into a Khatri family in Talwandi, Lahore.
• Propagating Monism, Hindu-Muslim unity, and denouncing idol worship and pilgrimages, Guru Nanak's disciple Mardana played the Rabab. His poems were later compiled in the Adi Granth.

Ten Gurus of Sikhism

• Guru Nanak
• Guru Angad
• Guru Amardas
• Guru Ramdas, to whom Akbar granted the land in Amritsar where the Golden Temple now stands
• Guru Arjan Dev, who compiled the Adi Granth and was tragically killed by Jahangir
• Guru Hargobind, who militarized the Sikh sect and triumphed over the Mughal army at Sangama near Amritsar
• Guru Har Rai
• Guru Har Krishan
• Guru Tegh Bahadur, who met his demise at the hands of Aurangzeb
• Guru Gobind Singh, the founder of the Khalsa and instigator of the Baptism custom. He compiled Dasven Padshah Ka Granth, met a fatal end at the hands of an Afghan fanatic, and initiated the Guru ka Langar community kitchen.

Dadu Dayal (AD 1554-1603)

• Born in Ahmedabad to Muslim parents but raised by Hindus, Dadu Dayal's teachings are compiled in a book called BANI.
• Renowned disciples like Sundaradasa, Rajjab, Bakham, and Warid followed his teachings, leading to the formation of the Brahma sect or Param Brahma Sampradaya.
• His followers, known as Dadupanthis, also established Thambas Ashramas.

Saguna Saints

The term "Saguna" translates to 'with form' and with qualities.

Ramananda (AD 14th-15th Centuries)

• Notable Saguna saints of Ram Bhakti include Ramananda (AD 14th-15th Centuries), born in Prayagraj. Teaching his ideals in Banaras and Agra, he was originally a follower of Ramanuja and a Vaishnava devotional poet saint. Opposing the caste system, he selected disciples from all sections of society, aligning with the principles of other monotheistic Bhakti saints.
• Ramananda, a proponent of Bhakti in North India, disseminated his teachings in local languages to reach a wider audience and challenged the monopoly of Sanskrit. Influenced by Nathpanthi ascetics of the Yoga School of Hindu Philosophy.

• Ramananda organized a group of followers called Bairagis, with disciples such as Kabir, Raidas, Sen, and Dhanna, who belonged to diverse backgrounds like weaving, cobbling, barbering, and farming. He was a dedicated worshipper of Krishna.

Tulsidas (AD 1532-1623)

• Tulsidas (AD 1532-1623) a contemporary of Akbar, spent most of his life in Varanasi. His notable works include Ramcharitamanas, Kavitawali, Gitawali, Parvati Mangal, and Janaki Mangal.

Nabhaji (AD 1537-1643)

• Nabhaji (AD 1537-1643), a blind poet born in Gwalior and raised by the saint Agradas, wrote Bhaktmal, mentioning 200 Bhaktas and following the tradition of Ramananda.

Saguna Saints (Krishna Bhakti)

• Surdas (AD 1483-1563), a disciple of Vallabhacharya, was a blind poet in the court of Akbar. He sang the glory of Krishna in his work Sursagar, and his other compositions include Krishna's Bal Leela, Sur Sarawali, and Sahitya Lahari.
• Mirabai (AD 1498-1546), belonging to the high-class ruling Rajput family and wife of the son of Rana Sanga of Mewar, was one of the most renowned Krishna devotees. She wrote the verse Padavali, and her bhajans were composed in Brij Bhasha, reflecting her deep love for Krishna and depicting a unique relationship with God.
• In her poetic expressions, Mirabai reveals a profound connection between herself and Krishna, portraying her as the devoted bride of Krishna, with Krishna taking center stage in her pursuits.

Chaitanya (AD 1486-1533)

• Known as Gaudiya Mahaprabhu, the founder of Gaurang or Bengal Vaishnavism, Chaitanya studied under Ishwapuri and propagated the philosophy of Achintya Bheda/Abheda. He popularized the Sankirtan/Kirtan system, a group devotional singing performed with wild dancing.
• Krishnadas Kaviraj wrote Chaitanya's biography, highlighting his acceptance of disciples from all classes and castes. The Achintya Bheda/Abheda School of Thought, created by Chaitanya, represents the Vedic doctrine of incomprehensible oneness and diversity.

Gaudiya Vaishnavism

• Founded by Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in the 16th century, Gaudiya Vaishnavism revitalized the culture of Krishna bhakti. Its philosophical basis stems from the Bhagavad Gita, Bhagavata Purana, and other Puranic scriptures and Upanishads.
• Centered on the devotional worship (bhakti yoga) of Radha and Krishna, Gaudiya Vaishnavism emphasizes their divine incarnations as the supreme forms of God (Svayam Bhagavan). The worship often takes the form of chanting or singing Radha and Krishna's holy names, such as Hare, Krishna, and Rama, through practices like the Hare Krishna Mahamantra.

Narsinh Mehta (AD 1414-1481)

• Regarded as Adikavi (the first poet) and Bhakta Kavi (devout poet) in Gujarati literature, Narsinh Mehta's bhajans remain an integral part of Gujarat's cultural life.
• An exponent of Vaishnava poetry, Mehta composed over 750 poems, known as paddy in Gujarat. His writings predominantly focus on devotion to Lord Krishna, imparting wisdom (Gyan), and advocating detachment from worldly affairs (Vairagya).

Shankaradeva (AD 1449-1568)

• In Assam, Shankaradeva founded the Ek Sharan Sampradaya or Mahapurushiya Sampradaya, introducing Vaishnavism. 

• Initiating the Ekasarana Movement (Neo-Vaishnavite Movement), Shankaradeva left an indelible mark on Assamese culture. His most celebrated work, Kirtana Ghosha, written in a simple language, showcased his proficiency in both Assamese and Brajavali.

Tyagaraja (AD 1767-1847)

• Hailing from Tamil Nadu, Tyagaraja emerged as the greatest saint composer of Carnatic music. His notable creation, Pancharatna Kritis (five gems), stands as a testament to his musical brilliance.

Bhakti Movement in Maharashtra

• Focused on the shrine of Vithoba or Vitthal, the residing deity of Pandharpur, the Bhakti Movement in Maharashtra perceived Vithoba as the manifestation of Krishna.
• This movement significantly influenced Maharashtra's social and cultural landscape, fostering the growth of Marathi literature, elevating the status of women, and dismantling caste barriers.

• Jnanesvara/Jnanadeva, Tukaram, and Namdeva are revered saints within the Vithoba cult, each contributing significantly to the Bhakti Movement in Maharashtra.

Jnanesvara /Jnanadeva (AD 1271-1296)

• Devoted to Vithoba, Jnanadeva was associated with the Krishnamargi sect. Recognized as the founder of Marathi language and literature, he penned insightful commentaries on the Bhagavad Gita titled Dyaneshwari/Bhavarthadipika and composed Amritanubhana.

Namdeva (AD 1270-1350)

• A tailor by caste, Namdeva opposed caste distinctions and founded the Varkari sect or the cult of Vithoba. His Abhangas (Doha) are believed to have been included in the Guru Granth Sahib.

Eknath (AD 1533-1599)

• Affiliated with the Varkari sect, Eknath authored a commentary on the Ramayana called the Bhavartha Ramayana and another on the 11th book of the Bhagavata Purana. He sought to shift the emphasis of Marathi literature from spiritual to narrative compositions and introduced a new form of Marathi religious song called Bharood.

Tukaram (AD 1598-1650)

• Associated with both the Dharkari and Varkari sects, Tukaram wrote devotional poems known as Abhangas. Living in the 17th century, he was a contemporary of Ramdas, Eknath, and the Maratha Emperor Shivaji Maharaj. Tukaram's poetry focused on Hindu God Vishnu's avatar, Vithoba or Vitthala, and he is renowned for his Abhangas (Dohas) in Marathi, contributing to the rich tradition of Gatha devotional poetry. Tukaram also played a key role in laying the foundation for Maratha Nationalism (Parmaratha) and emphasized kirtans or spiritual singing as a form of group devotion.

Ramdas (AD 1608-1681)

• Compiling his writings and sermons in Dasabodha, Ramdas was a devoted follower of Rama and Hanuman. Initiating the Samarth sect to revive spirituality in society, his writings included strong expressions encouraging nationalism.

Bhakti Movement in Karnataka

• The Bhakti Movement in Karnataka, emerging in the mid-12th century with the initiation of the Virashaiva Movement, witnessed the influential contributions of figures like Basavanna, Allama Prabhu, and Akka Mahadevi.
• Basavanna, a key proponent, utilized his poetry, known as Vachanas, to disseminate social awareness. He founded the Anubhava Mantapa, an academy that gathered mystics, saints, and philosophers adhering to the Lingayath faith. Their collective efforts were dedicated to championing the equality of all individuals and opposing entrenched caste systems and the mistreatment of women rooted in Brahmanical philosophy. Additionally, they rejected the worship of idols and religious rituals, questioned the theory of rebirth, and advocated for post-puberty marriage and widow remarriage.

Role of Women in the Bhakti Movement 

• The Bhakti Movement also saw significant participation from women poet-saints who played pivotal roles in shaping its narrative.
• Akka Mahadevi, a Kannada language poet, is celebrated for considering God Shiva as her spouse. Her mystical poems contributed significantly to Kannada literature.

• Janabai, influenced by the teachings of Saint Namdev, used her poetry to highlight the discrimination faced by women and Shudras.
• Buhinabai, a Varkari female saint from Maharashtra, expressed her devotion through Abhangas, adding to the rich tradition of the Bhakti Movement.

Nathpanthis, Siddhas, and Yogis

• Critiquing the rituals and conventional aspects of religion, as well as challenging social orders, these groups employed simple and logical arguments.
• They advocated renunciation of the world, asserting that salvation could be attained through meditation on the formless God.
• To achieve this goal, they endorsed rigorous mental and physical training through practices such as yogasanas, breathing exercises, and meditation.
• These philosophical movements gained particular popularity among the so-called 'low' castes.

The Sufi Movement

• Originating in Persia in the early 10th century, some individuals turned to asceticism as a response to the increasing materialism of the Caliphate, earning them the title of Sufis.
•  The Sufi Movement reached India in the 14th century and expanded to South India in the 15th century. Sufism represents the inner aspect of the Islamic creed (Tasawwuf), rooted in the Pir-Murid (Teacher-Student) relationship.
•  Evolving from the Doctrine of Wahadat-ul-Wajud (Unity of Being) propounded by Ibn-ul-Arabi (1165-1240 AD), Sufism emphasizes inner purity in contrast to the external conduct emphasized by orthodox Muslims.
• Characteristics of Sufism include:
  • Fana: Devotee's spiritual union with Allah.
  • Insan-e-Kamil: A perfect human being with all noble qualities.
  • Zikr-Tauba: Continuous remembrance of God (Zikr).
  • Wahadat-ul-Wajud: Acknowledgment that there is only one God for the entire cosmos; God and being are one.
  • Sama: Spiritual dance and music are employed to convey their ideas, despite the traditional prohibition of music in Islam.
• The term "Sufi" finds its origin in the Arabic word "Safa," holding two meanings: one who wears woolen clothes, symbolizing purity and sacredness. 
• Sufi mysticism is linked to a liberal interpretation of the Quran known as Tarikat, with Shariat representing the conservative interpretation. 
• This mystical tradition posits that Haq (God) and Khaliq (Soul) are one. Sufi orders were divided into two categories: Ba-Shara (those adhering to Islamic law) and Be-Shara (those not following Islamic law). 
• The four most popular Silsilas were the Chistis, Suhrawardis, Qadririyas, and Naqshbandis.

Sources Used to Reconstruct the History of Sufi Traditions

• Sources employed to reconstruct the history of Sufi traditions include "Kashi-ul-Mahjub" by Ali Bin Usman Hujwiri, detailing Sufi orders outside India. 
• Malfuzat records teachings of Sufi saints, pirs, and sheiks, with notable texts such as "Fawa'ld al Fund/Morals of the Heart" by Amir Hasan Sijzi Dehlavi and "Khair al Majalis/the Best of Assemblies" by Hamid Qalandar. Maktubat, a collection of letters by Sufi pirs addressed to their Murids, is another significant source. 
• Tazkiras, biographical accounts of saints, were initiated by Mir Khwurd Kirmani's "Siyar-ul-Auliya" (14th century) and Abdul Haqq Muhaddis Dehlavi's "Akhbar-ul-Akhyar."

The Chisti Silsila

• The Chisti Silsila, established around AD 1192 by Khwaja Muin-ud-din Chisti (Gharib Nawaz) in India, gained prominence after his relocation to Ajmer. Following his death in AD 1235, his grave became a revered site, visited by Sultan Muhammad Tughlaq. Mahmud Khalji of Malwa erected a mosque and dome at the site in the 15th century.
• The Dargah experienced heightened levels of patronage during the reign of Akbar, the Mughal Emperor.
• They generally refrained from engaging in influential political roles and established Khanqahs and Dargahs in distant places like Multan and Bengal while maintaining close connections.

• Qutub-ud-din Bhakhtiyar Kaki laid the foundation for the Chisti presence in Delhi with the support of Sultanate ruler Illtutmish.

Other notable Chisti figures include

•  Farid-ud-din Ganj-i-Shakar (AD 1175-1265), also known as Baba Farid. He concentrated his activities in Hansi and Ajodhan.
• Nizamuddin Auliya (AD 1238-1325) - The most renowned Sufi saint in India. Amir Khusrau, a distinguished musician and literary figure, was also a disciple of Sheikh Nizamuddin. They followed a system called Nadasampradaya, involving burying disciples close, resembling a familial bond.
• Sheikh Burhanuddin Gharib - He initiated the Chisti order in the 13th century in the Deccan and established the Chisti community in South India.
•  Muhammad Banda Nawaz established the order in the Deccan city of Bijapur.

Suhrawardi Silsila

• The Suhrawardi order arrived in India simultaneously with the Chistis, although it flourished predominantly in Punjab and Multan. Shihab-ud-din Suhrawardi founded this Silsila in Baghdad, and Baha-ud-din Zakariya established it in India.
• Originating in Sohrevardi, Iran, the order expanded throughout the Islamic world under the guidance of Abu Hafs Umar al-Suhrawardi (AD 1145-1234). In contrast to the Chistis, the Suhrawardis received financial support from Sultans and actively engaged in political affairs.

• They advocated for a synthesis of Ilm (scholarship) and mysticism, embracing royal patronage and amassing considerable wealth. Actively participating in religious ceremonies, they campaigned for the integration of mysticism with Ilm.
• In contrast to Chisti traditions, the Suhrawardis discarded practices such as bowing before entering the Silsila. Their popularity grew in Punjab, Sindh, Kashmir, and parts of Bengal.
• The Suhrawardi order gained prominence in India, thanks to the efforts of Bukhari and his successor, Baha-ud-din Zakariya.

Naqshbandi Silsila

• Naqshbandi Silsila, initiated by Khwaja Bahauddin Naqshbandi, became influential in India. The most revered saints of this Silsila were Sheikh Badruddin Sarhindi and Sheikh Sharfuddin Yahya Maneri.
• Unlike the Chistis, Sufis in the Naqshbandi Silsila viewed the relationship between man and God as that of a slave and master, adhering strictly to Shariah law and rejecting religious innovations (Biddats).
• They opposed Akbar's liberal policies, including the elevation of numerous non-Muslims to high positions and the abolition of slavery.

The Qadri Silsila

• The Qadri Silsila, established by Sheikh Abdul Qadir and his sons during the Mughal rule, gained popularity in Punjab. Prominent disciples included Mughal Princess Jahanara and her brother Dara.
• Qadris subscribed to the concept of Wahdat-al-Wajud, signifying the Unity of Existence or Unity of Being, where God and his creation are considered one and similar. The saints of this Silsila dismissed orthodox elements.

Sufi Orders

Prelims Facts

• Let no man asik a man's sect or caste, whose dictum was this?

- Ramananda [UPPSC (Pre) 2009]

•  Who introduced the Vaishnavism in Assam and Cooch Behar?

- Shankaradeva [UPPSC (Mains) 2011]

• Where is the birthplace of Mahaprabhu Vallabhacharya ?

- Champaranya [CGPSC (Pre) 2015]

• Who was the first Bhakti Saint to use Hindi for the propagation of his message?

- Ramananda [IAS (Pre) 2002)

•  In whose regime, Guru Nanak Dev founded Sikh Religion ?

- Sikandar Lodi [UPPSC (Pre) 2008)

•  Which leader of the Bhakti movement was influenced by Islam ?

- Namdev [UP UDA/LDA (Pre) 2010]

• Who was the earliest Sufi Saint to have settled at Ajmer?

- Shaikh Muinuddin Chishti [UPPSC (Pre) 2011]

• The book 'Fawaidul Fawad' is the record of the conversation of Shaikh Nizamuddin Auliya, it was compiled by ?

- Amir Hassan Sizzi [UPPSC (Pre) 2021]

•  Which Sultan of Delhi was refused an audience by Nizamuddin Auliya?

- Alauddin Khilji [BPSC (Pre) 2000]

•  The most reputed disciple of Sheikh Farid, who had seen the reign of as many as seven Sultans of Delhi was

- Nizamuddin Auliya [UPPSC (Mains) 2014]

• Which Sufi Saint regarded Krishna among the Aulyas ?

- Shah Muhammad Ghaus [UPPSC (Pre) 2003, UPPSC (Mains) 2012]

•  Who composed the 'Prem Vatika' poem on the life of Krishna?

- Raskhan [IAS (Pre) 1996 ]

•  Every year a fair is held at the tomb of famous Sufi Saint Haji Waris Ali Shah at

- Dewa Sharif [UPPSC (Pre) 2008]

• Why is the festival of Good Friday of Christians is celebrated?

- Jesus Christ Crucified [UPPSC (Pre) 1990, BPSC (Pre) 2005]

Self Check

1. Consider the following statements.

IAS (Pre) 2014

1. Biak is a composition of the teachings of saint Dadu Dayal.

2, The philosophy of Pushtimarg was propounded by Madhvacharya.

Which of the statement (s) given above is/are correct?

(a) Only 1

(b) Only 2

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

2. Consider the following statements.

IAS (Pre) 2019

1. Saint Nimbarka was contemporary of Akbar.
2. Saint Kabir was greatly influenced by Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi.

Which of the statements) given above is/are correct?

(a) Only 1

(b) Only 2

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

3. Which of the following was not a contribution of the Bhakti Movement ?

(a) It provided a simple and in expensive religion for the people.

(b) It successfully attacked some of the deep rooted superstitions of the masses.

(c) It succeeded in uniting the Hindus and the Muslims.

(d) It made a dent on the rigidity of the caste system.

4. Consider the following Bhakti saints.

IAS (Pre) 2013

1. Dadu Dayal 
2. Guru Nanak
3. Tyagaraja

Who among the above was/were preaching when the Lodi dynasty fell and Babur took over?

(a) 1 and 3

(b) Only 2

(c) 2 and 3

(d) 1 and 2

5. Which of the following statements is/are not correct about the Bhakti tradition in South India?

1. Earliest Bhakti Movements in India were led by Alvar and Nayanar saints.
2. Nalayira Divya Prabandham, frequently described as Tamil Veda is an anthology of compositions by the Alvars.
3. Karaikkal Ammaiyar women Alvar saints, supported patriarchal norms.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

(a) Only 2

(b) 1 and 2

(c) Only 3

(d) All of the above

6. With reference to Sufism in Indian history, consider the following statements. UPPSC (Pre) 2002

1. Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi was a contemporary of
2. Sheikh Nasiruddin Chiragh-E-Dehlavi was disciple of Sheikh Nizamuddin Auliya.
3. Aurangzeb was a contemporary of Sheikh Salim Chisti.
4. The Qadiri order of Sufis was first introduced in India by Sheikh Niamutullah and Makhdum Muhammad Jilani.

Which of the statements) given above is are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 

(b) 1 and 3

(c) 2 and 3 

(d) 2 and 4

7. With reference to the religious history of medieval

India, the Suf mystics were known to pursue which of the following practices?

IAS (Pre) 2012

1. Meditation and control of breath.
2. Severe ascetic exercises in a lonely place.
3. Recitation of holy songs to arouse a state of ecstasy in their audience.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

(a) 1 and 2

 (b) 2 and 3

 (c) Only 3

 (d) All of these

8. Match the following

Codes

1. a) 2 3 1 4
2. b) 3 2 4 1
3. c) 3 2 1 4
4. d) 2 3 4 1

9. Which of the following Suf saints was known as Gharib Nawaz?

APPSC (Pre) 2017

(a) Sheikh Nizamuddin Auliya

(b) Khwaja Moin-ud-din Ghisti

(c) Hazrat Nasiruddin Chirag-e-Delhi

(d) Khwaja Qutb-ud-din Bakhtiyar Kaki

Know Right Answer

1 (d)

2 (a) 

3 (a)

4 (d)

5 (c)

6 (b)

7 (c)

8 (a)

9 (c)