Which statement regarding the Chola religious life is incorrect?a)Kapa...
The incorrect statement regarding the Chola religious life is option D - The emergence of sects had nothing to do with Brahmanism.Chola Religious Life
The Chola dynasty, which ruled over parts of present-day South India from the 9th to the 13th centuries, had a rich and diverse religious life. The Cholas were patrons of various religious sects and their rule witnessed the emergence and influence of several religious and philosophical traditions.
1. Kapalikas, Kalamukhas, and Pashupatas
The Chola period saw the existence and practices of several sects, including the Kapalikas, Kalamukhas, and Pashupatas. These sects were known for their unique rituals and practices that involved sacrifices, including blood offerings and sexual orgies. These practices were considered extreme and were not mainstream in the broader Hindu society.
2. Tantric and Shakti Cults
During the second half of the Chola period, various sects like the Tantric and Shakti cults emerged and gained popularity. These sects focused on the worship of the divine feminine energy and emphasized the importance of rituals, mantras, and meditation practices. The Shakti cults, in particular, worshipped goddesses such as Parvati, Durga, and Kali.
3. Lingayats and Basavarya
The latter part of the Chola period also witnessed the emergence of the Lingayat sect, founded by Basavarya. The Lingayats, also known as Veerashaivas, were a devotional Shaivite sect that rejected the Brahmanical rituals and caste system. They emphasized personal devotion to Lord Shiva and equality among all individuals, irrespective of their caste or social status.
4. Influence of Brahmanism
Contrary to the incorrect statement in option D, the emergence of sects during the Chola period did have some connections with Brahmanism. While some sects challenged or deviated from the mainstream Brahmanical practices, others incorporated elements of Brahmanism in their beliefs and rituals. The influence of Brahmanism can be seen in the incorporation of Vedic deities, rituals, and philosophical concepts in several sects, albeit with their unique interpretations and practices.
Conclusion
The Chola religious life was characterized by the presence of various sects, each with its unique beliefs, rituals, and practices. While some sects engaged in extreme rituals like blood offerings and sexual orgies, others focused on the worship of the divine feminine energy or emphasized personal devotion to Lord Shiva. These sects had varying degrees of connection with Brahmanism, with some challenging or deviating from it, while others incorporating elements of it. The emergence of the Lingayat sect and the influence of Brahmanism on Chola religious life further demonstrate the diversity and complexity of religious traditions during this period.