Do you think that the Indian saints have brought about social reform and awareness in Indian society? Explain. (UPSC CSE Mains 2019 - Sociology, Paper 2)
Indian society has witnessed saints and their teachings since early 11th century, various saints from different regions of India and their teachings have continuously helped in bringing equality and awareness in society. They spread the message of love and brother hood in Indian society.
- Ramanuja founded Visistadvaita Siddhanta or qualified monism and according to him, the way to salvation lies through Karma, Gyan and Bhakti.
- Nimbarka founded Dvaitadvaita or dualistic monism. He wrote Vedanta Parijata-saurabha, a commentary on Brahmasutras.
- Madhavacharya propounded Dvaita or dualism. According to him, the final aim of man is the direct perception of Hari which leads to Moksha or eternal bliss.
- Vallabhacharya propounded Suddhadvaita Vedanta (Pure non-dualism) and philosophy called Pustimarga (the path of grace) He founded a school called Rudra Sampradaya. According to him, salvation is through Sneha (deep rooted love for God).
- Chaitanya was responsible for the popularity of Vaishnavism in Bengal through his Kirtans. He began the Achintayabhedabhedavada School of theology. He preached the religion of intense faith in one Supreme Being whom he called Krishna or Hari.
- Swami Vivekananda was one of the most important figures that played an important role to spread and introduce Indian philosophy and yoga and meditation in Indian and the western nations.
- Tulsidas was a great poet and a devotee of Rama. He composed the famous. Ramcharitamanas in Hindi
- Kabir a disciple of Ramananda, emphasised the unity of god whom he calls by several names, such as Rama, Hari, Allah, etc. He strongly denounced Hindu and Muslim rituals. He strongly denounced the caste system, especially the practice of untouchability.
All of these saints were in favour of love and brotherhood through religious and non-religious roots.
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