Welcome to ONLiNE UPSC

Life and Legacy of Sant Tukaram

Celebrating the Poet-Saint's Influence on Devotion and Society

Life and Legacy of Sant Tukaram

  • 07 Dec, 2023
  • 290

Who Was Sant Tukaram?

Sant Tukaram was a prominent 17th-century poet-saint from Maharashtra, India. He is celebrated for his profound devotional poetry and his significant contributions to the Bhakti Movement.

What Is Sant Tukaram Known For?

Tukaram is best known for his Abhangas, a form of devotional poetry dedicated to Lord Vitthal, a manifestation of Krishna. His verses reflect deep personal devotion and advocate for social equality.

The Essence of Tukaram’s Teachings

The teachings of Sant Tukaram emphasize the need for a pure heart and sincere devotion to God, prioritizing these over ritualistic practices and the divisions of caste.

Contribution to the Bhakti Movement

Through his life and work, Tukaram significantly shaped Marathi literature and language. His poetry fostered a spirit of devotion and ignited social reform within the Bhakti Movement.

Examples of Tukaram’s Influence

Tukaram's impact is evident in the Varkari tradition, which involves pilgrimages to the holy town of Pandharpur in Maharashtra, where devotees sing and celebrate his poetry.

Historical Significance of Sant Tukaram

Sant Tukaram symbolizes the egalitarian ethos of the Bhakti Movement, challenging the rigid caste system and promoting the concept of spiritual democracy.

Remembering Sant Tukaram Today

Today, his teachings and life are celebrated through annual festivals like Tukaram Beej and through the performances of Gavlan, a form of devotional music. Sant Tukaram remains a revered figure in Indian spirituality, embodying values of devotion, humility, and social harmony that resonate across ages.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Who is Sant Tukaram?
Answer: Sant Tukaram was a 17th-century poet-saint from Maharashtra, known for his devotional poetry and significant role in the Bhakti Movement.

Q2. What are Abhangas?
Answer: Abhangas are devotional poems composed by Sant Tukaram, dedicated to Lord Vitthal, emphasizing personal devotion and social equality.

Q3. How did Tukaram influence Marathi literature?
Answer: Sant Tukaram significantly shaped Marathi literature through his poetry, which promoted devotion and social reform within the Bhakti Movement.

Q4. What is the Varkari tradition?
Answer: The Varkari tradition involves pilgrimages to Pandharpur, where devotees sing Tukaram's poetry, celebrating his influence on spirituality.

Q5. How is Tukaram remembered today?
Answer: Tukaram's life and teachings are celebrated through festivals like Tukaram Beej and through performances of Gavlan, highlighting his lasting impact.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: Who was Sant Tukaram?
A) A 20th-century poet
B) A 17th-century poet-saint
C) A historical figure in Indian politics
D) A famous musician
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: What is the primary focus of Sant Tukaram's Abhangas?
A) Political reform
B) Devotion to Lord Vitthal
C) Historical events
D) Business ethics
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: How did Sant Tukaram challenge social norms?
A) By promoting caste distinctions
B) By advocating for social equality
C) By ignoring social issues
D) By focusing solely on rituals
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What does the Varkari tradition involve?
A) Dancing performances
B) Pilgrimages to Pandharpur
C) Political rallies
D) Academic lectures
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What festival celebrates Sant Tukaram's legacy?
A) Diwali
B) Holi
C) Tukaram Beej
D) Makar Sankranti
Correct Answer: C

Question 6: What did Tukaram emphasize in his teachings?
A) Ritualistic practices
B) Social hierarchy
C) Pure heart and devotion to God
D) Material wealth
Correct Answer: C

Question 7: What language did Sant Tukaram help shape through his work?
A) Hindi
B) English
C) Marathi
D) Sanskrit
Correct Answer: C

Stay Updated with Latest Current Affairs

Get daily current affairs delivered to your inbox. Never miss important updates for your UPSC preparation!

Stay Updated with Latest Current Affairs

Get daily current affairs delivered to your inbox. Never miss important updates for your UPSC preparation!

Kutos : AI Assistant!
Life and Legacy of Sant Tukaram
Ask your questions below - no hesitation, I am here to support your learning.
View All
Subscription successful!