GS1 PYQ (Mains Answer Writing): Sufi Movement | History for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Question 1: 

Sufis and medieval mystic saints failed to modify either the religious ideas and practices or the outward structure of Hindu/Muslim societies to any appreciable extent. Comment. (UPSC GS 1 Mains) 

Answer: 

Introduction:

• Sufis and medieval mystic saints were influential figures in the spiritual realm of both Hindu and Muslim societies during medieval times.
• They emphasized experiencing spirituality through personal connection with the divine.
• However, their ability to change religious ideas, practices, and societal structures is debated.

Body:

1. Limited Change in Religious Ideas:

   • Sufis and mystic saints preached love, tolerance, and unity, but they didn't radically change the core beliefs of Hinduism or Islam.
   • They focused on individual spirituality rather than challenging mainstream religious teachings.
   • For example, Hindu mystic saints stressed devotion to personal deities but didn't challenge caste divisions.

2. Limited Impact on Religious Practices:

   • Sufis introduced practices like remembering God (dhikr) and spiritual music (sama), but these didn't replace mainstream rituals in Islam.
   • Similarly, Hindu mystic saints promoted devotional singing (kirtan) but didn't change traditional rituals significantly.

3. Minimal Change in Societal Structure:

   • Both Hindu and Muslim societies were deeply rooted in traditional structures during medieval times.
   • Sufi orders operated within existing Islamic institutions without challenging social hierarchies.
   • Mystic saints like Kabir emphasized equality, but caste divisions persisted.

Conclusion:

• Sufis and medieval mystic saints influenced spirituality in Hindu and Muslim societies.
• However, they didn't significantly change religious ideas, practices, or societal structures.
• Their teachings coexisted with existing norms rather than challenging them.

Question 2: 

What do you understand by Sufism. Explain how Sufism is relevant in the present times?

Answer: 

Introduction: 

Sufism is a spiritual aspect of Islam focusing on finding God within oneself through practices like remembering God (dhikr) and spiritual music (sama). It has historical importance in shaping Islamic spirituality and culture.

Body:

1. Present Relevance of Sufism:

   • Spiritual Fulfillment: In today's busy world, many seek deeper meaning and peace. Sufism offers a path for inner peace and connection with the divine.
   • Universal Values: Sufism teaches love, compassion, and tolerance, which are crucial for harmony among diverse communities in our globalized world.
   • Countering Extremism: Sufism promotes a moderate approach to Islam, countering extremist ideologies with its message of peace and empathy.
   • Social Justice: Sufism emphasizes ethical behavior and social responsibility, advocating for justice and equality in society.

2. Modern Expressions of Sufism:

   • Sufi Music and Poetry: Sufi music and poetry continue to inspire people worldwide, expressing spirituality and emotions across cultures.
   • Sufi Communities: Sufi orders provide spaces for spiritual practice and support, allowing individuals to engage in communal worship and learning.
   • Contemporary Sufi Scholars: Present-day scholars and teachers share Sufi teachings through lectures, books, and online platforms, adapting traditional concepts to modern challenges.

Conclusion: 

Sufism remains relevant today as it offers spiritual guidance, universal values, and insights into addressing contemporary issues like extremism and social injustice. Its emphasis on inner peace, love, and compassion resonates with individuals seeking spiritual fulfillment in our complex world.

Question 3: 

Persian literary sources of medieval India reflect the spirit of the age. Comment.

Answer:

Interaction of Islamic and Indian Cultures during Mughal Rule:

With the arrival of Mughals, Turks, and Afghans, the Islamic and Indian cultures engaged in mutual influence during the medieval period. Persian became the dominant language, replacing Sanskrit in regions under Muslim rule.

Persian Littérateurs and Literary Contributions:

• Amir Khusrau: Notable works include Panch Ganj, Matla-ul-Anwar, Shirin wa Khuarav, Laila wa Majnun, Aina-i-Sikandari, and Hasht Bihisht. He introduced Hindi words and idioms, incorporating Indian themes into his works.
• Shams Siraj Afif: Wrote Takih-Firoz Shahi, providing valuable insights into Firoz Shah Tughlaq's reign, detailing policies and the irrigation tax system.
• Khawaja Najm-ud-Din Hasan: Authored Fawaid-ul-Faud, recording conversations with the saint Nizamud-Din Aulia, offering a valuable document on Sufi philosophy.
• Abu’l Fazl: Credited with Akbarnama and Ain-i-Akbari, depicting the Mughal era, its administrative system, and the famous "Account of the Hindu Sciences."
• Dara Shikoh: Translated Hindu scriptures into Persian, including the Persian translation of Upanishads called Sirr-i-Akbar and the translation of Bhagavad Gita. He sought commonalities between Hindu and Islamic traditions.

Impact on Indian Culture:

With the arrival of Muslims, Persian, an Aryan tongue and sister language of Sanskrit, became prominent in India. This cultural confluence in a diverse land like India, known for adopting, blending, and producing composite cultural unity in diversity, continued.