Question

write a note on Sufism and bhakti​

Answer 1

India has a great evolving culture in past and present. Sufism and Bhakti are some some great example of the Indian way of life and practices.

Bhakti and Sufism

• Idea of Bhakti is devotion but not worship. it was revitalization and reformation of Indian culture.
• Bhakti period is considered between 14-16 CE. though trace of it can be found in Mahabharata time and Sangam period as well.
• this movement was led by the Saint like Kabir, Guru Nanak, Ravidas, Dadu Dayal, Ramdas etc.
• Some Historians interprete that it was reflection of inner vitality of Indian culture while other emphasis it was outcome of the arrival of Islam.
• Historian like George A Gearson argues that it was continuation of ancient monotheistic religion of India.
• M.S.A Rao opined that it was a protest movement against monopoly of Brahmins.
• Marxist Historian argues that it was against the feudal values.
• Its features were inclusive in nature, it was liberal, progressive, non violent, tolerant and based on the idea of humanism.
• it's PAN India presence and egalitarian outlook lured people to follow it. and from mass movement it became way of life.
• it contributed in the propagation of literature, art and culture, and vernacular languages immensely.
• though it had serious limitations as well, it's impact was limited and it couldn't eradicate problem like caste, untouchability etc