GS1 PYQ (Mains Answer Writing): Religious Movements | History for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Q1: Discuss how the Shraman tradition marked the beginning of new religious and social movements in ancient India? (GS 1 UPSC Mains)

Answer: 

The Shramana traditions in ancient India, spearheaded by ascetics who renounced worldly life, marked the beginning of new religious and social movements. These movements, including Buddhism, Jainism, Lokayatas, and Ajivikas, challenged the authority of the Brahmins and the ritualistic orthodoxy of the Brahmanas.

1. Religious Movement by Shramanas:

   • Emergence of New Religions: Shramana sects, such as Buddhists and Jains, rejected the supremacy of Vedic philosophies. Figures like Buddha and Mahavira, after attaining enlightenment, propagated alternative paths to truth.
   • Simplifying the Meaning of Truth: Shramanas simplified complex Vedic concepts. For instance, Buddha articulated the Four Noble Truths, offering a straightforward understanding of suffering, its causes, and the path to liberation.

2. Social Changes Brought by Shramanas:

   • Increase in Power of Vaishyas and Kshatriyas: Economic and political developments elevated the influence of Vaishyas and Kshatriyas. Shramana traditions attracted these classes, irrespective of their birth status, emphasizing the pursuit of answers beyond societal boundaries.
   • Rejection of Caste System: Buddhism and Jainism rejected the existing caste system, appealing to the masses. The egalitarian outlook of Shramanic traditions attracted those exploited in the caste system, fostering social mobility.
   • Change in Royal Patronage: Powerful kings, notably during the Mauryan dynasty, offered patronage to non-Brahmanical orders. King Ashoka, after the Kalinga war, adopted Buddhist teachings as the state policy, facilitating social acceptance.
   • Promotion of Social Harmony: Shramanic traditions, with their commitment to non-violence (Ahimsa) and universal brotherhood, contrasted with the Brahmanical traditions that often led to wars over Yajnas. This commitment to peace and social harmony resonated with societies seeking tranquility.

The Shramana traditions initiated a revolutionary transformation in the social and religious landscape of ancient India. Their rejection of Brahmanical orthodoxy, promotion of simple doctrines, and emphasis on social harmony continue to influence humanity across borders, illustrating the enduring impact of these ancient movements. 

Q2: The Bhakti movement received a remarkable re-orientation with the advent of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Discuss. (GS 1 UPSC Mains)

Answer:
Introduction:

The Bhakti movement, characterized by devotion to a personal god, witnessed a significant transformation with the emergence of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, marking a pivotal moment in the movement's history.

Re-orientation of the Bhakti Movement with Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu:

1. Emphasis on Radha-Krishna Bhakti:
   • Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu propagated a deep devotion to Radha and Krishna, known as Radha-Krishna bhakti, which became the central focus of his teachings.
   • He emphasized the intense love and devotion between Radha and Krishna as the ultimate expression of bhakti, inspiring followers to emulate their divine love.
2. Inclusivity and Universality:
   • Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's teachings emphasized the universality and inclusivity of bhakti, transcending social barriers such as caste, creed, and gender.
   • He welcomed people from all backgrounds to participate in the devotional practices, fostering a sense of unity and equality among his followers.
3. Congregational Chanting of the Hare Krishna Mahamantra:
   • Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu popularized the congregational chanting of the Hare Krishna Mahamantra as a powerful spiritual practice.
   • This chanting, known as sankirtan, became a cornerstone of his movement, offering devotees a direct and accessible path to connect with the divine.
4. Philosophical Synthesis:
   • Chaitanya Mahaprabhu synthesized the teachings of Vedanta philosophy with the devotional practices of the Bhakti movement.
   • He emphasized the concept of achintya-bhedabheda, the simultaneous oneness and difference between the devotee and the divine, providing a philosophical framework for his bhakti-centered approach.
5. Spread of Bhakti Movement Beyond Bengal:
   • Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's teachings and sankirtan movement spread beyond Bengal to various parts of India, including Odisha, Assam, and even South India.
   • His disciples, known as the Goswamis of Vrindavan, played a crucial role in disseminating his teachings and establishing Vaishnavism as a prominent religious tradition.

Conclusion:
The advent of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu marked a remarkable re-orientation of the Bhakti movement, shifting its focus towards intense devotion to Radha and Krishna, fostering inclusivity, popularizing congregational chanting, synthesizing philosophy with devotion, and spreading the movement's influence across the Indian subcontinent. His teachings continue to inspire millions of devotees worldwide, embodying the essence of love and devotion in the Bhakti tradition.

Q3: Evaluate the nature of Bhakti Literature and its contribution to Indian culture.

Answer:

Introduction:
Bhakti literature, characterized by its profound expressions of devotion to a personal deity, holds a significant place in Indian culture. Through various literary forms and diverse cultural influences, it has contributed immensely to shaping religious beliefs, promoting social harmony, and fostering artistic creativity.

Nature of Bhakti Literature:

• Devotional Themes: Bhakti literature revolves around themes of love, surrender, and devotion to a chosen deity, often expressed through poetry, songs, hymns, and narratives.
• Expressive Forms: It encompasses a wide range of expressive forms, catering to diverse audiences and cultural contexts, from sophisticated Sanskrit compositions to vernacular languages accessible to the masses.
• Diverse Cultural Influences: Reflecting India's cultural diversity, Bhakti literature draws inspiration from regional languages, folk traditions, mystic poetry, and the teachings of saints and sages across different time periods and regions.
• Personalized Deity Worship: Bhakti literature encourages individualized forms of deity worship, allowing devotees to establish intimate relationships with their chosen deities and express their devotion in unique ways.
• Social and Spiritual Reform: It serves as a catalyst for social and spiritual reform by challenging established norms, advocating for egalitarianism, compassion, and inclusivity, and inspiring movements for social justice and ethical living.

Conclusion:

In essence, Bhakti literature not only preserves India's cultural heritage but also promotes religious pluralism, provides spiritual guidance, fosters artistic expression, and advocates for social reform and ethical values. Its enduring influence continues to shape Indian culture and inspire individuals on their spiritual journeys.