History & Civics
Most of the saint-poets of the medieval period denounced discrimination in society and upheld the principle of equality amongst human beings through their teachings and writings. According to you, what were the obstacles they may have encountered?
Answer
The saint-poets may have encountered the following obstacles:
- Strong opposition from the orthodox priestly class (Brahmins), who feared losing their authority and influence over religion.
- Resistance from the higher castes, who benefited from the caste system and were unwilling to give up their privileges.
- Deep-rooted social customs, superstitions and rigid traditions that people were reluctant to give up.
- Difficulty in convincing people to accept new ideas that challenged long-established beliefs, rituals and practices.
- Hostility from sections of society that did not want to break the existing social and caste barriers.
Related Questions
Assertion (A): The Bhakti Movement helped in the growth of regional languages in India.
Reason (R): Bhakti saints composed their devotional songs and poetry in Sanskrit.
- A is true, but R is false.
- R is the reason for A.
- Both A and R are false.
- Only R is true, and A is false.
Assertion (A): The Sufi mystics detached themselves from the ruling classes and orthodox elements.
Reason (R): They disapproved of the vulgar display of wealth and the degeneration of morals following the establishment of the Islamic empire.
- A is true, but R is false.
- R is the reason for A.
- A is false, but R is true.
- Both A and R are false.
'Religion during the medieval period of Indian history was characterised by a combination of supreme devotion to God and a liberal approach.' Analyse this statement in the light of your understanding of the chapter.
With what aim did the Bhakti Movement begin?