Bhakti Movement is important part of Indian History and its syllabus. Previous Year Question (PYQ) papers are invaluable resources for aspirants preparing for competitive exams like the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations. In this article we present important PYQ on Bhakti Movement.
UPSC PYQ on Bhakti Movement
Q- The world’s second tallest statue in sitting pose of Ramanuja was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of India at Hyderabad recently. Which one of the following statements correctly represents the teachings of Ramanuja? (2022)
(a) The best means of salvation was devotion.
(b) Vedas are eternal, self-existent and wholly authoritative.
(c) Logical arguments were meant for the highest bliss.
(d) Salvation was to be obtained through meditation.
Answer- Option A
EXPLANATION
Saint Ramanujacharya was a philosopher and social reformer who traveled extensively throughout India promoting equality and social justice. He advocated universal salvation through devotion to God, compassion, humility, equality, and mutual respect, principles collectively known as Sri Vaishnavam Sampradaya. Ramanuja played a crucial role in reviving the Bhakti movement, inspiring other schools of Bhakti thought. His teachings served as inspiration for poets such as Annamacharya, Bhakt Ramdas, Thyagaraja, Kabir, and Meerabai.
Q- Consider the following statements: (2014)
- ‘Bijak’ is a composition of the teachings of Saint Dadu Dayal.
- The Philosophy of Pushti Marg was propounded by Madhvacharya.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Answer- Option D
EXPLANATION
Statement 1: Incorrect – Kabir was a renowned poet and social reformer during the 15th century whose writings influenced the Bhakti movement. He advocated against religious discrimination and preached the presence of one Supreme being in all religions. He founded the religious community KabirPanth, with followers known as Kabirpanthis. He was greatly influenced by his Guru, Saint Swami Ramanand, and authored works such as Sakhi Granth, Anurag Sagar, Bijak, and Kabir Granthawali.
Statement 2: Incorrect – Pusti Bhakti, the grace of God, is categorized into four types according to Vallabhacharya’s philosophy, which is known as Pushtimarga or the path of grace. These four types include Pravaha Pustibhakti, Maryada Pustibhakti, Pusti-Pustibhakti, and Suddha-Pustibhakti, each representing different aspects of devotion and relationship with God.
Q- Consider the following Bhakti Saints: (2013)
1. Dadu Dayal
2. Guru Nanak
3. Tyagaraja
Who among the above was/were preaching when the Lodi dynasty fell and Babur took over?
(a) 1 and 3
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 1 and 2
Answer- Option B
EXPLANATION
Lodi dynasty fell and Babur took over in 1526.
- Guru Nanak (1469 – 1539)
- Dadu Dayal (1544–1603)
- Kakarla Tyagabrahmam (1767 – 1847)
Q- With reference to the religious history of medieval India, the Sufi mystics were known to pursue which of the following practices? (2012)
1. Meditation and control of breath
2. Severe ascetic exercises in a lonely place
3. Recitation of holy songs to arouse a state of ecstasy in their audience
Select the correct answer using the codes given below :
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer- Option D
EXPLANATION
Sufism, a mystical branch of Islam, emphasizes the spiritual quest for God while rejecting materialism. Sufi practices encompass a strong focus on love and devotion to God, expressed through music, dance, and meditative practices such as controlling the breath. The practice of Sama, a musical recital aimed at inducing a mystical state of ecstasy, is also common among Sufis. Additionally, disciples, known as Murids, progress through various spiritual states by engaging in solitary spiritual exercises. Therefore, all statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct.
Also read UPSC PYQ on Terms from Medieval India and Administration in Medieval India.