Evaluate the nature of Bhakti Literature and its contribution to Indian culture. UPSC IAS Mains 2021 General Studies (Paper – 1)
Bhakti literature represents the legacy of a socio-religious reform movement that prevailed from 8th century to 17th century CE. It was characterised by use of local languages and socially inclusive outlook.
Nature of Bhakti literature
- Devotional: Kirtana Ghosha of Shankardeva (Vaishnava devotional songs); Thirumurais (Tamil songs in praise of Shiva) etc.
- Non-sectarian: In Bhakti poems, Radha-Shyam is supposed to be the equivalent of Seeta-Ram.
- Inter-regional appeal: Ramacharitsmanas and Hanuman Chalisa written in Awadh gained popularity across the length and breadth of the country
- Inter-Religious harmony: Sufi poetry of Baba Farid was incorporated into Sikhs’ religious canons.
- Unorthodox approach: Guru Nanak in his poems talked about futility of unnecessary rituals and pilgrimages.
- Against elitism: Bhakti literature is marked by use of non-elite elements like regional dialects, inclusion of castes and out-castes, anti-ritual, emphasis on love for God over respect for Him.
Contribution to Indian culture
- Linguistic Development: Development of Marathi, Punjabi and its script Gurumukhi, Assamese etc. occurred due efforts of saints like Tukaram, Sikh Gurus, Shankaradeva etc.
- Indianisation of Islam occurred due to the endeavours of the Sufi saints. For example, contributions of Nizamuddin Auliya, Rahim etc.
- Music and Dance: Use of Bhakti literature for devotional singing in kirtana, Qawwalli, devotional dance such as Sattariya etc.
- Philosophical Growth: Post-Vedanta ideas were explored by Madhvacharya through his Dvaitadvaita, Ramanujacharya in his Vishishta Advaita etc.
- Assimilation of various saints, diverse religious ideas promoted growth in religion.
- Emergence of Sects like Sikhism, Kabirpanth etc.
Criticisms
- The religious and philosophical ideas did not represent a break from orthodoxy.
- It failed to create any political awakening in people.
- It promoted servility through ideas of devotion, and sustained hegemony of hierarchical social structure. -
Bhakti literature provided a breath of relief for masses under conditions of social and political repression. The cultural impact was diverse from music to philosophy and language.
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