Meaning and Principles of Bhakti

Rooted in the Sanskrit word "Bhaj," meaning to serve, Bhakti denotes fondness, devotion,
worship, and piety towards the divine.

Major features of Bhakti Movement

1. Belief in One God: One of the chief characteristics of the Bhakti Movement was the
belief in a singular, omnipresent God. Bhakti saints emphasized the worship of this
one personal God through love and devotion.

2. Rejection of Idol Worship and Elaborate Rituals: Bhakti saints advocated a direct and
personal relationship with God, negating the need for elaborate rituals or idol
worship. They believed that true devotion transcended external practices and rituals.

3. Equality of All Castes: Bhakti saints vehemently opposed the hierarchical caste
system prevalent in society. They preached the equality of all individuals, irrespective
of their caste or social status, emphasizing that devotion to God was open to all.

4. Emphasis on Hindu-Muslim Unity: Bhakti saints promoted the idea of unity among
people of different religious backgrounds. They believed that all individuals,
regardless of their religion, were equal in the eyes of God, fostering Hindu-Muslim
unity and harmony.

5. Preaching in Vernacular Languages: Bhakti saints communicated their teachings in

the vernacular languages spoken by the common people, making their message
accessible to a broader audience. This departure from Sanskrit, the language of the
elite, facilitated greater engagement and understanding among the masses.

6. Emphasis on Virtue and Purity of Heart: Bhakti saints emphasized the importance of
moral virtues such as truth, honesty, kindness, and charity. They believed that only
virtuous individuals could truly realize God, highlighting the significance of inner
purity and righteous conduct.

7. Conception of God: The Bhakti Movement encompassed diverse perspectives on the

nature of God. While some saints viewed God as formless (Nirguna), others believed
in God with various forms (Saguna), accommodating different theological
interpretations within the movement.

Historical Development:

 The term "Bhakti" finds its roots in Vedic literature but gained socio-cultural
significance in the 6th century CE.

 Originating in South India between the 6th and 10th centuries CE, the Bhakti movement
was expressed through the devotional poetry of Alvars and Nayanars.

 Its influence expanded across India, especially in North and East India, facilitated by
puranic literature such as the Bhagavata-Purana and Bhagavad Gita.

 The movement reached its zenith between the 14th and 17th centuries CE, witnessing
the proliferation of Bhakti saints and their teachings.

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Therefore, Bhakti Movement first emerged in South India around 7th century CE and
thereafter, it emerged in North India in 14th century CE. First we will discuss about the Bhakti
Movement in South India.

Rise of the Bhakti Movement in South India:

The Bhakti movement in South India witnessed a significant rise from the 7th to the 9th
century, characterized by intense devotion to single deities, primarily Shiva and Vishnu. This
theistic belief found expression in the hymns of early Shaiva and Vaishnava saints known as
the Nayanars and Alvars respectively. The emergence of these saints and their hymnal
compositions played a pivotal role in shaping the religious landscape of medieval South India.

Alvars and Nayanars:

Alvars:

 Devoted to: Vishnu and his avatars, especially Krishna.

 Number: Traditionally 12 Alvars are recognized.

 Social Background: Diverse backgrounds, including royalty, women, and even a low-
caste metalworker (Tukayalvar).

 Compositions: Known as "Divya Prabandham," a collection of 4,000 verses in Tamil,

known for their emotional intensity and lyrical beauty.

 Famous Alvars: Nammalvar (considered the greatest), Andal (a female Alvar known
for her mystical poems), Periyazhvar (known for his philosophical hymns).

Nayanmars:

 Devoted to: Shiva and his avatars.

 Number: Traditionally 63 Nayanmars are identified.

 Social Background: Even more diverse than Alvars, included Brahmins, warriors,
women, and even outcastes (Nandanar). This challenged the caste system.

 Compositions: Known as "Tirumurai," a collection of over 1,200 poems in Tamil,

expressing a range of emotions from love and devotion to anger and social criticism.

 Famous Nayanmars: Appar (known for his powerful hymns), Sundarar (known for his
devotional love poems), Manikkavasagar (considered the greatest, known for his
philosophical work "Tirukkural").

Similarities:

 Both used Tamil as their primary language, making religious ideas accessible to the
masses.

 Emphasized personal devotion and emotional connection with the divine.

 Challenged the dominance of elaborate rituals and priestly class.

 Contributed significantly to the development of Tamil literature.

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Differences:

 Primary deity: Vishnu (Alvars) vs. Shiva (Nayanmars).

Causes and Impacts of the Bhakti Movement:

1. Personalized Religious Attitude: The Bhakti movement fostered a highly personalized

religious attitude focused on an individual's direct relationship with the deity,
promoting a sense of community among devotees.

2. Critique of Caste Hierarchy: The hymns of the Nayanars and Alvars reflected a critique
of the caste hierarchy prevalent in society, challenging the ritual dominance of the
Brahmanical class. They advocated for equal access to the divine regardless of caste
or economic status, thereby generating dissent against Brahmanical hegemony.

3. Alternative Community of Bhaktas: The concept of a community of bhaktas provided

an alternative to the rigid caste hierarchy, emphasizing devotion to God as the primary
criterion for inclusion. While not entirely rejecting the caste system, the movement
prioritized devotion over caste status.

4. Pilgrimage and Sense of Belonging: The notion of pilgrimage further contributed to a

sense of community among devotees. The hymns of the Nayanars and Alvars
referenced numerous Shaiva and Vaishnava pilgrimage sites across South India,
reinforcing the collective identity of the bhaktas.

Impact on Society and Religion:

 The Bhakti movement challenged established religious norms and practices,

advocating for a simpler, more devotional approach to spirituality.

 It fostered social cohesion by transcending caste boundaries and promoting unity

among devotees of various social backgrounds.

 The hymnal compositions of the Nayanars and Alvars laid the foundation for the
development of Shaivism and Vaishnavism as distinct religious traditions in South
India.

 The movement inspired subsequent religious developments and philosophical

discourses, influencing the trajectory of South Indian religious thought.

Bhakti Movement in North India (14th – 17th century)

The rise of the Bhakti movement in North India during the Sultanate and Mughal periods was
a significant socio-religious phenomenon that transformed the religious landscape of the
region. This movement, characterized by its emphasis on devotion (bhakti) and religious
equality, had its own unique historical context and ideological underpinnings. Here, we delve
into the key factors contributing to the emergence and development of the Bhakti movement
in North India, particularly focusing on its distinctiveness from the South Indian Bhakti
tradition:

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 1. Influence of Islamic Thought: The establishment of the Delhi Sultanate and the
subsequent spread of Islam in North India had a profound impact on Hindu society.
The encounter with Islamic monotheism and Sufi mysticism contributed to the
emergence of new religious currents within Hinduism, prompting a reevaluation of
traditional beliefs and practices.

2. Reaction to Brahmanical Authority: The Bhakti movement in North India can be seen
as a response to the dominance of Brahmanical orthodoxy and the rigid caste
hierarchy. Bhakti saints challenged the authority of Brahminical scriptures and
rituals, advocating for a more direct and personal relationship with the divine.

3. Spread of Bhakti Literature: The dissemination of Bhakti poetry and literature in

vernacular languages played a crucial role in popularizing the movement among the
masses. Saints like Kabir, Nanak, Mirabai, and Tulsidas composed devotional songs
and hymns that resonated with people from diverse social backgrounds.

4. Cultural Synthesis: The Bhakti movement facilitated a cultural synthesis between

Hinduism and Islam, incorporating elements from both traditions. This syncretic
approach fostered religious tolerance and mutual respect among followers of
different faiths, contributing to the ethos of religious pluralism in North India.

5. Social Reform: Bhakti saints championed social equality and denounced caste-based
discrimination. They emphasized the universality of devotion and rejected the notion
of caste superiority in matters of religious merit, thereby promoting social cohesion
and solidarity.

6. Role of Bhakti Saints: Influential Bhakti saints, such as Kabir, Nanak, and Ravidas,
served as catalysts for social change and religious revival. Through their teachings
and exemplary lives, they inspired a sense of spiritual awakening and moral
righteousness among their followers, transcending traditional sectarian divides.

7. Regional Variations: The Bhakti movement manifested differently in various regions

of North India, reflecting local cultural contexts and historical dynamics. For instance,
the Vaishnava Bhakti tradition in Bengal, led by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, exhibited
distinct features compared to the Nirguna Bhakti tradition in North India led by saints
like Kabir and Ravidas.

8. Conflict and Sectarianism: Despite its overarching emphasis on religious unity, the
Bhakti movement was not devoid of internal conflicts and sectarian rivalries. Disputes
between different Bhakti sects occasionally led to tensions and even violence,
highlighting the complexities inherent in religious reform movements.

Major Bhakti Saints

1. Shankaracharya (8th century CE)

 Devotion: Devotee of Shiva.

 Philosophy: Advaita Vedanta (Non-dualism)

 Ultimate reality is the oneness of the individual soul and Supreme God
(Brahman).

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  Brahman is Nirguna (formless) and without attributes.

 The world is an illusion or Maya.

 Salvation is attained through the path of knowledge (Jnana yoga).

2. Ramanujacharya (1017-1137)

 Devotion: Devotee of Vishnu.

 Philosophy: Vishishtadvaita Vedanta (Qualified non-dualism)

 Soul remains distinct from but united with the supreme God.

 Emphasized the spirit of equality and upliftment of people.

3. Nimbarkacharya (11th century)

 Devotion: Devotee of Krishna.

 Philosophy: Dvaitadvaita Vedanta (Dualistic monoism)

 Categorized objects into Ishwar (God), conscious objects (chit), and

unconscious objects (achit).

 Both oneness and difference are essential, with difference being as

crucial as oneness.

4. Basava (1105-1167)

 Devotion: Devotee of Shiva.

 Philosophy: Lingayatism

 Emphasized devotion to Shiva and rejection of caste distinctions.

 Advocated for social reform and equality.

5. Madhvacharya (1238–1317)

 Philosophy: Dvaita Vedanta (Dualism)

 God and devotee are eternally distinct entities.

 The world is real, not an illusion.

 Propagated Tattvavada, which categorizes reality into independent and

dependent entities.

6. Namdev (1270–1350)

 Devotion: Devotee of Vithoba (a form of Krishna).

 Philosophy: Bhakti Yoga

 Emphasized devotion to God through music and poetry.

 Preached love, compassion, and equality.

7. Kabir (1440–1518)

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  Philosophy: Nirguna Bhakti (Devotion to the formless God)

 Rejected rituals and formalism, emphasizing direct devotion to the

formless divine.

 Advocated for religious unity and harmony among Hindus and Muslims.

8. Guru Nanak (1469-1539)

 Devotion: Devotee of the Formless (Ik Onkar).

 Philosophy: Sikhism

 Emphasized devotion to the formless and omnipresent divine.

 Rejected caste distinctions and advocated for social equality.

 Founded Sikhism based on the principles of love, equality, and service.

9. Vallabhacharya (1479-1531)

 Philosophy: Shuddhadvaita Vedanta (Pure Non-dualism)

 God is the universe itself, and everything is part of Krishna's Leela.

 Founded Pushti Marg (path of grace) and rejected asceticism.

 Emphasized the dual nature of the soul as both an enjoyer and a doer.

10. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (1486-1534)

 Philosophy: Achintya-bhedabheda Vedanta

 God is simultaneously one and different from the creation.

 Founded Gaudiya Vaishnavism and popularized the chanting of the

Hare Krishna Maha-mantra.

 Believed to be the combined avatar of Radha and Krishna.

11. Mirabai (1498–1547)

 Devotion: Devotee of Krishna.

 Philosophy: Nirguna Bhakti (Devotion to the formless God)

 Expressed her devotion to Krishna through poetry and songs.

 Defied social norms and embraced spiritual liberation through

devotion.

12. Surdas (1478–1583)

 Devotion: Devotee of Krishna.

 Philosophy: Nirguna Bhakti (Devotion to the formless God)

 Composed devotional poetry and songs dedicated to Krishna's divine

love.

 Emphasized the power of love and devotion to transcendental bliss.

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 13. Guru Ravidas (15th-16th century)

 Devotion: Devotee of the Formless.

 Philosophy: Bhakti, Nirguna Bhakti

 Advocated for social equality and rejected caste distinctions.

 Emphasized devotion to the formless divine and inner purity.

14. Tulsidas (1532-1623)

 Devotion: Devotee of Rama.

 Philosophy: Advaita Vedanta and devotion to Rama

 Composed the epic poem Ramcharitmanas, emphasizing devotion to

Rama.

 Advocated for ethical living and devotion to God as the path to

salvation.

Evaluate the nature of the Bhakti Literature and its contribution to Indian culture.

Model Answer

Bhakti Literature is a significant part of Indian culture that emerged during the medieval
period. It refers to a collection of devotional texts written in various Indian languages by poets
and saints who advocated the path of devotion (Bhakti) to attain the divine. The nature of
Bhakti Literature is characterized by its intense emotional appeal, simplicity, and
accessibility to the masses.
Nature of Bhakti Literature:

 Emphasis on Personal Connection: Bhakti Literature de-emphasized rigid rituals and

traditions often controlled by a priestly class. Instead, it emphasized the importance
of individual devotion and personal experience in one's spiritual journey. This focus
on a direct connection with the divine resonated deeply with people. For instance, the
12th-century saint-poet Basava, in his Vachanas, emphasized the direct experience
of God over elaborate rituals, leading a movement that challenged traditional Hindu
practices.
 Gods as Beloveds: The content of Bhakti Literature focused on expressing devotion to
a personal god, often visualized in human form. This concept made the divine more
relatable. For example, Meerabai's poems addressed Krishna as her lover, while
Namdev's Marathi verses spoke of his devotion to Vitthal. Similarly, the 15th-century
mystic poet Akka Mahadevi's vachanas portrayed her intense love and longing for the
god Shiva.
 Vernacular Languages for Universal Reach: It was often written in simple and
accessible languages spoken by the common people, unlike earlier religious texts
primarily composed in Sanskrit. This use of vernacular languages like Tamil, Hindi,
Bengali, and Marathi made Bhakti Literature truly accessible to the masses and
helped spread its message far and wide. The 15th-century poet-saint Kabir, through
his dohas (couplets) written in a blend of Hindi and medieval Indian languages,
reached a wide audience with his messages of unity and love.

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  Emotional Expression through Diverse Forms: Bhakti Literature included a wide
range of literary forms – poems (bhajans), hymns (kirtans), stories (bhakti kathas),
and allegorical plays (bhavas). These forms conveyed a sense of intimacy and
emotional attachment to the divine. For instance, saint-poets like Tulsidas used epic
poetry (Ramacharitmanas) to tell the story of Rama, allowing readers to connect with
the characters' emotional struggles and triumphs. Similarly, the 14th-century poet-
saint Andal's Tiruppavai, composed in Tamil, depicted her deep yearning for Lord
Vishnu in the form of playful songs sung by the Gopis of Vrindavan. Contribution of
Bhakti Literature to Indian Culture:
 Promoting Religious Harmony and Unity: Bhakti Literature emphasized the underlying
unity of all religions and their ultimate goal of attaining the divine. For example, the
poems of Kabir, a weaver-saint, spoke of a single formless God experienced
differently by various faiths. Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, echoed this
sentiment in his hymns. This emphasis on unity helped bridge religious divides in
medieval India. Similarly, the 16th-century mystic poet Tulsidas's Ramcharitmanas
emphasized the universal themes of love, devotion, and righteousness, appealing to
Hindus of various sects.
 Facilitating the Spread of Regional Languages and Literature: Bhakti Literature's use
of local languages not only made religious teachings accessible but also fueled the
development of regional languages and literature. The outpouring of devotional poetry
in Tamil by the Alvars significantly enriched Tamil literature. Similarly, the works of
saint-poets like Mirabai and Tulsidas played a major role in shaping Hindi literature.
The 16th-century poet-saint Purandara Dasa's compositions in Kannada brought
devotional music to the common people and laid the foundation for the Haridasa
movement in Karnataka.
 Promoting Social Equality: Bhakti Literature challenged the hierarchical caste system
prevalent in India by advocating for the equality of all individuals before the divine.
Saint-poets like Ravidas, a cobbler, and Kabir, a weaver, spoke out against caste
discrimination in their verses. This message of social equality resonated with people
from marginalized communities. The 17th-century poet-saint Sant Eknath, through his
Abhangas in Marathi, emphasized devotion to Vithoba regardless of caste or social
status, promoting a message of inclusivity.
 Inspiring Various Art Forms: Bhakti Literature served as a wellspring of inspiration
for various art forms. The bhajans and kirtans associated with the Bhakti movement
provided the foundation for classical Indian music and influenced dance forms like
Bharatanatyam and Kathak. The 18th-century poet-saint Tyagaraja's compositions in
Telugu not only enriched Carnatic music but also inspired generations of musicians
and performers.
 Influencing Philosophical and Spiritual Traditions: Bhakti Literature not only
influenced popular religious practices but also had a profound impact on
philosophical and spiritual traditions. The Bhakti movement helped shape the
development of devotional strands within Hinduism, such as Vaishnavism and
Shaivism. It also influenced other spiritual paths like Sant Mat, which emphasizes
meditation and the inner journey towards the divine. The 15th-century mystic poet
Kabir's verses, known as Kabir Panth, formed the basis of a syncretic religious
community that integrated elements of Hinduism and Islam. Conclusion:

Bhakti Literature's enduring appeal lies in its focus on personal devotion, emotional
expression, and accessibility. Its contribution to Indian culture is multifaceted, promoting

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religious harmony, social equality, and cultural unity. Its influence continues to be felt in
various aspects of Indian life, inspiring and influencing people even today. Through its diverse
forms and profound messages, Bhakti Literature remains a cherished aspect of India's
spiritual and literary heritage.