Medieval India: Cultural Movements Class 7 Notes Questions and Answers Social Chapter 2

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Class 7 Social Science Chapter 2 Medieval India: Cultural Movements Notes Questions and Answers

Medieval India: Cultural Movements Class 7 Notes Pdf

Class 7 Social Science Chapter 2 Question Answer Kerala Syllabus

Question 1.
What is the theme behind these lines?

Answer:
The above lines is from “Perumal Tirumozhi” written by Kulasekhara Alvar. Through these lines, he points out that the spiritual life is more important than the material life.

Question 2.
Make a note on the changes that South Indian Bhakti movement brought about in the social system.
Answer:
Bhakta poets, Alvars and Nayanars travelled from place to place, singing devotional songs in vernacular languages, which helped in spreading devotion among people. The compositions of Bhakta poets had a great- impact on the common people when evil practices and inequality were dominant. The meaningless customary practices that prevailed in the society were questioned. Irrespective of caste, all sections of the society were attracted to the Bhakti movement. The writings of Alvars and Nayanars popularised Hinduism. Many temples were also built during this period.

Question 3.
List out the key features of the social conditions during the Bhakti period
Answer:

• Caste discrimination existed
• Child Marriage prevailed
• Superstitious belief existed
• Discrimination against people by birth and occupation existed.

Question 4.
The Vira Shaiva movement questioned the caste system and inequalities. Evaluate this statement.
Answer:
The Vira Shaiva movement, also known as the Lingayat movement, started in the 12th century in Karnataka under the leadership of Basavanna. It strongly questioned the caste system and social inequalities. Vira Shaivas believed that devotion to Lord Shiva was the only important thing and not a person’s caste. They rejected rituals and the authority of the Brahmins, promoting the idea that all people are equal in the eyes of God. They also encouraged the involvement of women in religious practices. This movement helped to reduce the rigid caste distinctions and promoted social justice and equality.

Question 5.
Write your findings from Kabir’s Doha and stories.
Answer:

• People call god by different names
• Kabir made people think against superstitions
• Rejecting Materialism
• Self-Reliance
• Equality and Tolerance

Question 6.
To what extent did Kabir’s ideas help to promote equality and religious harmony among the people? Organise a discussion.
Answer:
(Hint) Organise a discussion by using the given points

• How did Kabir’s Doha affect the people?
• Kabir’s view of Hindu-Muslim brotherhood
• Kabir’s social vision

Question 7.
What ideas did you get from the given story?

Once, Guru Nanak and Bhai Mardana came to rest at Sajjan Thug’s inn. He had a habit of robbing those who stayed there. Knowing this Guru Nanak did not want to rest for the night. Instead, they started singing Shabad prayer songs composed by Guru Nanak. The recital meant it was unjust to loot others’ wealth. Sajjan Thug realized his mistake when he listened to the lyrics of the song. He begged Guru for forgiveness. Guru Nanak advised him to give back all the stolen wealth to the poor and to live honestly. Then on, Sajjan began a life helping those who visited his inn.
Answer:

• It is unjust to rob others of their wealth
• Apologise if you get it wrong
• Be honest in Life
• Power of music and Prayer

Question 8.
Make a note on the methods adopted by Guru Nanak to propagate the ideas of religious tolerance and universal brotherhood.
Answer:
Guru Nanak attempted to harmonise the ideas of different religions. He travelled within and outside India to propagate his thoughts. Guru Nanak was against the meaningless religious rituals. He attempted to propagate the message of One God. He promoted the ideals of equality, brotherhood, love, goodness, and religious tolerance. Caste discrimination, idolatry, pilgrimage, etc., were rejected by him. Economic inequality was questioned and people were encouraged to abstain from using intoxicants. He emphasised the importance of the ‘Langar’ or community kitchen where all classes of people could eat together. His ideas later paved the way for the formation of Sikhism. The Social and religious activities of Guru Nanak spread cultural harmony in medieval India.

Question 9.
Discuss the significant role of Mirabai, Akka Mahadevi, etc., in the growth of the Bhakti movement.
Answer:

• Women were less recognised and respected in the medieval society.
• Conditions remained the same in relation to freedom of worship.
• With the advent of the Bhakti movement, many women took to composing and singing hymns and songs to worship the deity of their choice.
• Mirabai was a Rajput princess.
• She gave up all the worldly comforts and immersed herself in devotion to Krishna, and she composed Krishna Bhajans.
• Akka Mahadevi was a prominent figure in the Vira Shaiva movement.
• She led discussions against the social and spiritual oppression the women faced in those days.

Question 10.
Doesn’t this incident tell us that Khusru, who was not afraid of death, was afraid of the displeasure of his Sufi Sheikh Nizamuddin Auliya? What else did you learn from this story?
Answer:

• He believes in the immortal life
• He was a Sufi believer
• He gave importance to Spiritual life

Question 11.
Prepare the information required to make a flip book on Sufi movement in the format of a flip page.
Answer:
Sufis were those who accepted devotion as a means to approach God
Sufi Masters were the ones who gave importance to spiritual life, abstaining from luxurious life.
Sufi Scholars thought that one of the ways to access God was devotional singing.
Sufism is an Islamic devotional movement which originated in Central Asia.

Question 12.
Prepare a note on how the Bhakti movement helped in growing vernacular languages.
Answer:
Bhakti-Sufi propagators used vernacular languages to spread their ideas among common people. This led to the growth of regional languages. Many devotional poems were composed in languages like Tamil, Punjabi, Bengali, Marathi, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam etc. Many other literary works in vernacular languages were also composed. Urdu, a combination of Persian and Hindi, is an example of India’s cultural integration. Amir Khusru was one of the most prominent writers of the Urdu language during this period. Kabir has enriched the Hindi language. ‘Mahabharata’, ‘Ramayana’ and other works have been translated into various regional languages. This led to the rejuvenation of language and literature.

Question 13.
What were the changes that happened in the society as a result of Bhakti Sufi movements?
Answer:

• Religious tolerance
• Attitude against caste discrimination
• Attitude to question imposed customs
• Promote Peace and Harmony
• Social Equality
• Monotheism
• Fraternity
• Unity in Diversity
• Thoughts against discrimination against
• women
• Growth of regional language
• Hindu-Muslim Unity

Extended Activities

Question 1.
Organise a discussion on how the Bhakti-Sufi movements contributed to the emergence of a syncretic culture in modern India.
Answer:
(Hints) Organise a classroom discussion by using the given points:

• To foster a vision of unity in diversity beyond differences such as caste, region, language, dress and gender differences.
• Attitude to embrace differences and unite with them.
• Develop world views based on humanism.

Question 2.
‘Ideas and Messages of Basavanna’ Prepare and present a skit and add the script to the school wiki.
Answer:
(Hints) Organise a skit on the basis of the given model.
Skit: “The Wisdom of Basavanna”
Characters:
Narrator
Basavanna
Young Student
Villager
Scene 1: Introduction
(Narrator stands at the centre of the stage.) Narrator: Welcome, everyone, to our skit on the wisdom and teachings of Basavanna, the great 12th- century philosopher and social reformer. Through this performance, we hope to share his messages of equality, devotion, and social justice.

Scene 2:Basavanna and the Young Student
(Basavanna is seated under a tree, reading a manuscript. A young student approaches him.)
Young Student: Guru Basavanna, I have heard many great things about your teachings. Could you please share some of your wisdom with me?
Basavanna: Of course, my child. Always remember, true devotion is not about rituals and ceremonies, but about sincerity and purity of heart. Let me tell you a vachana (poem) I wrote:
“The rich will make temples for Shiva, What shall I, a poor man, do? My legs are pillars, The body the shrine, The head a cupola of gold. Listen, O Lord of the Meeting Rivers, Things standing shall fall, But the moving ever shall stay.”

Young Student: That is beautiful, Guru. What does it mean?

Basavanna: It means that the true temple of God lies within us. It is not in the grand structures built of stone, but in our hearts and our actions. Always strive to be righteous and compassionate.

Scene 3: Basavanna and the Villager (A villager rushes in, looking distressed.)
Villager: Basavanna, our village is plagued with inequality and discrimination. The upper castes refuse to allow the lower castes into the temple. What should we do?

Basavanna: This injustice must be challenged. Remember, all humans are equal, regardless of their caste and gender.

Villager: But how can we change such deep-rooted beliefs?

Basavanna: Change begins with courage and conviction. We must educate and lead by example. We must create a society where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. Let us work together to build a community based on love and equality.

Scene 4: Conclusion
(Narrator steps forward.)
Narrator: And so, the teachings of Basavanna continue to inspire us to this day. His messages of devotion, equality, and social justice are timeless. Let us remember and follow his wisdom in our daily lives, striving to create a world where everyone is treated with respect and kindness. (All characters come to the front of the stage)

Narrator: Thank you for watching our skit on the ideas and messages of Basavanna. Let us carry these lessons with us and make the world a better place. (Everyone exits the stage.)

Question 3.
Prepare an edition/digital album with images and ideas of Bhakti-Sufi propagators with the help of the map given below.

Answer:

Ramananda. a saint from North India, founded the Ramanandi Sampradaya, emphasising devotion to Rama and Sita. He was known for breaking social barriers by accepting disciples from all castes and promoting a more inclusive approach to spirituality.

Guni Nanak. the founder of Sikhism, preached the oneness of God, devotion, equality, and social justice. His hymns form part of the Guru Granth Sahib. emphasising the importance of a simple. religious life dedicated to God and humanity.

Surdas. a blind poet-singer from North India, is celebrated for his devotional songs dedicated to Krishna, particularly focusing on Krishna’s childhood and youthful exploits, which are compiled in the Sursagar.

Tulsidas, a poet-saint from North India, authored the Ramcharitmanas, an epic poem that retells the Ramayana in the vernacular Awadhi, making the story of Rama accessible to the common people and emphasising devotion and rihteousness.

Sant Eknath, a Marathi saint, is known for his works like the Eknathi Bhagavata. He played a significant role in the Warkari movement, stressing love, devotion, and the importance of leading a pious, moral life dedicated to God.

Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, known as “Gharih Nawaz (Benefactor of the Poor), founded the Chishti Order in India. His teachings emphasised love, charity, and social service. and his dargah (shrine) in Ajmer remains a major pilgrimage site, attracting millions annually.

A pivotal figure in the Chishti Order, his khanqah in Delhi was a hub of spiritual guidance and cultural interaction. He promoted the principles of love, peace, and equality, influencing many through his discourses and poetry.

Farid-ud-din Ganj-i-Shakar was another great Sufi Saint of India. Hc was popularly known as Baba Farid. He was a great disciple of Shaikh Muinuddin Chisti. He spent most of his time in Hansi and Ajodhan (in modern Haryana and the Punjab, respectively). He was deeply respected in Delhi. He was surrounded by a large number of people whenever he visited Delhi. His outlook was so broad and humane that some of his verses are later found quoted in the Adi Granth of the Sikhs. He avoided the company of the Sultan and the Amirs.

Rumi, the renowned Sufi poet and mystic. go beyond borders and time to become one of the most influential figures in medieval India. Hispoetic expressions of divine love and spiritual longing resonated deeply with seekers across the Indian subcontinent, attracting a devoted following. Through his mesmerising poetry and timeless teachings. Rumi propagated the essence of Sutism, emphasising the path of love, compassion, and inner transformation. In medieval India, his words ignited hearts, fostering a culture of spiritual inquiry and devotion that continues to inspire seekers to this day. Rumis legacy endures as a beacon of light, guiding souls on their journey toward divine union and inner peace.

Lai Ded. also known as Lalleshwari or Lalla Arifa, was a prominent 14th-century Sufi mystic from Kashmir. She revered both in Hindu and Muslim traditions, reflecting her unique spiritual journey that go beyond religious boundaries. Born in 1320, Lai Ded’s poetry. composed in Kashmiri. is characterised by protound spiritual insights and a quest for the divine, often critiquing the rigidity of orthodox practices. lier verses, known as vukhs. arc still recited and cherished for their deep philosophical meanings and simple yet powerful expressions. Lai Ded’s lifè and works signitcant1y contributed to the spiritual and cultural heritage of Kashmir. fostering a message of love, unity, and spiritual enlightenment.

Class 7 Social Science Medieval India: Cultural Movements Notes Questions and Answers

Question 1.
Where did the Bhakti movement emerge?
Answer:
Tamil Nadu

Question 2.
Devotees of Vishnu, known as …………
Answer:
Alvars

Question 3.
Devotees of Shiva, known as ……………
Answer:
Nayanars

Question 4.
The writings of the Nayanars were titled as ………
Answer:
Thirumuraikal

Question 5.
Who established Anubhava Mandapam?
Answer:
Basavanna

Question 6.
The word ‘sufism’ is originated from which word?
Answer:
Scholars suggest that the word Sufism is derived from the word ‘suf’, meaning wool, or from the word ‘Safi’, meaning purity.

Question 7.
How did Sufi scholars believe one could achieve a connection with God?
Answer:
Sufi scholars believed that one of the ways to achieve a connection with God was through devotional singing.

Question 8.
Which Sufi sects, known as Silsilahs, reached India?
Answer:
Among the twelve Sufi sects known as Silsilahs, the Chishti and Suhrawardi silsilahs reached India.

Question 9.
What were Sufi masters and their followers called?
Answer:
The Sufi master was called Pir (Sheikh), and his followers were called Murid.

Question 10.
What were Khanqahs?
Answer:
The Khanqahs were the social centres where the Sufis resided.

Question 11.
How did Bhakti-Sufi propagators spread their ideas among common people?
Answer:
Bhakti-Sufi propagators used vernacular languages to spread their ideas among common people.

Question 12.
What was the impact of using vernacular languages by Bhakti-Sufi propagators?
Answer:
The use of vernacular languages by Bhakti- Sufi propagators led to the growth of regional languages.

Question 13.
In which languages were many devotional poems composed during the Bhakti-Sufi movement?
Answer:
Many devotional poems were composed in languages such as Tamil, Punjabi, Bengali, Marathi, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam.

Question 14.
Write an example of India’s cultural integration in terms of language?
Answer:
Urdu, a combination of Persian and Hindi, is an example of India’s cultural integration.

Question 15.
Who was one of the most prominent writers of the Urdu language during the Bhakti-Sufi period?
Answer:
Amir Khusru was one of the most prominent writers of the Urdu language during this period.

Question 16.
How did Kabir contribute to the Hindi language?
Answer:
Kabir enriched the Hindi language through his works.

Question 17.
Which epic works were translated into various regional languages?
Answer:
The ‘Mahabharata’ and ‘Ramayana’ were translated into various regional languages, leading to the rejuvenation of language and literature.

Question 18.
What critical role did the Bhakti-Sufi movements played in society?
Answer:
The Bhakti-Sufi movements played a critical role in reducing conflicts, bringing people together, and creating an atmosphere of peace and harmony.

Question 19.
How did the Bhakti-Sufi movements succeed in spreading their ideas?
Answer:
The Bhakti-Sufi movements were successful in bringing the ideas of different religions to the common people.

Question 20.
What impact did Bhakti and Sufi ideas had on people of different castes and religions?
Answer:
The influence of Bhakti and Sufi ideas helped people belonging to different castes and religions to co-exist peacefully.

Question 21.
What hallmarks of modern Indian society have evolved from the influence of Bhakti- Sufi movements?
Answer:
The hallmarks of modern Indian society, such as communal harmony, unity in diversity, fraternity, equality, and pluralism, have evolved from the influence of Bhakti-Sufi movements.

Question 22.
In what ways did the Bhakti-Sufi movements contribute to communal harmony?
Answer:
The Bhakti-Sufi movements contributed to communal harmony by promoting the coexistence of people from different religious and caste backgrounds, fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding.

Question 23.
Define Bhakti Movement?
Answer:
Bhakti is the total submission of one’s life to God. The ideas and activities that arise out of Bhakti are known as the Bhakti movement.

Question 24.
How did the Bhakti movement impact society and religion in South India?
Answer:
The Bhakti movement, led by Alvars and Nayanars, had a profound impact on society and religion in South India. It attracted people from all sections of society. irrespective of caste, spreading devotion and questioning societal norms. The compositions of Bhakta poets, compiled as “Nalayira Divyaprabandham” by Alvars and “Thirumuraikal” by Nayanars, popularised Hinduism and inspired the construction of many temples during this period.

Question 25.
What were the key contributions of Alvars and Nayanars to the Bhakti movement?
Answer:
Alvars and Nayanars were instrumental in popularising the Bhakti movement in South India. As devotees of Vishnu and Shiva respectively, they composed devotional hymns and songs in vernacular languages, spreading the message of devotion and challenging societal norms. Their writings, compiled as “Nalayira Divyaprabandham” and “Thirumuraikal,” had a significant impact on the common people, attracting them to the path of devotion and spiritual inquiry.

Question 26.
What are the major Characteristics of the Bhakti Movement that existed between the 7th and 12th centuries?
Answer:

• Composition and singing of devotional songs in vernacular languages
• Love and Submission to God
• Access to all irrespective of caste
• Equal participation of women
• Deep devotion to the beloved deity

Question 27.
Who are the Prominent poets of the Bhakti Movement?
Answer:
Devotees of Vishnu (Alvars)

• Kulasekhara Alvar
• Periyalvar
• Nammalvar
• Andal

Devotees of Shiva (Nayanars)

• Karaikal Ammayar
• Appar
• Sambandar
• Sundarar
• Manikkavasagar

Question 28.
Who was Basavanna and what were his contributions?
Answer:
Basavanna was a philosopher, social reformer, and poet who lived in Kannada Desa during the 12th century. He try to raise awareness about the social and religious discrimination prevalent in society and worked towards eliminating them. Basavanna advocated for a vision centered on freedom, equality, and social justice, which he promoted through the Vira Shaiva movement founded by him.

Question 29.
What were the major activities of the Vira Shaiva Movement?
Answer:

• Brahminical supremacy and the authenticity of the Vedas were questioned.
• People were educated against caste discrimination and discrimination against women.
• Monotheism was encouraged.
• Convinced the people about the greatness of work and labour.
• He opposed child marriage and encouraged marriage after puberty and widow remarriage.

Question 30.
Who was Kabir and what were his Ideas?
Answer:
Kabir was a propagator of the Bhakti movement who lived in Northern India (present-day Uttar Pradesh) in the 15th century.

• Kabir propagated his ideas through hymns known as “Dohas”.
• He composed his hymns in a language that common people could understand.
• Kabir stood for Hindu-Muslim unity and brotherhood.
• He reminded that the Hindus and Muslims are two vessels made of the same soil.
• He questioned the caste system, untouchability, religious rituals, post- death rites, idol worship etc.
• Kabir criticized all kinds of” discrimination based on caste, religion, race, legacy, wealth etc.
• Kabir’s thoughts and activities were immensely influenced by Bhakti-Sufi’s ideas.
• He rejected religious traditions.
• He also ignored the external rituals of religions.
• Kabir, who believed in a formless God, propagated Bhakti as a means of salvation.
• Kabir travelled from place to place with his disciples to spread his ideas.

Question 31.
Who was Guru Nanak? What were his main Ideas and contributions?
Answer:
Guru Nanak was born in 15th century in the village of Talwandi (now in Pakistan) in Sheikhpura, Punjab.

• Guru Nanak attempted to harmonise the ideas of different religions.
• He travelled within and outside India to propagate his thoughts.
• Guru Nanak was against meaningless religious rituals.
• He attempted to propagate the message of One God.
• He promoted the ideals of equality, brotherhood, love, goodness, and religious tolerance.
• Caste discrimination. idolatry, pilgrimage, etc., were rejected by him. Economic inequality was questioned, and people were encouraged to abstain from using intoxicants.
• He emphasised the importance of the “Langar” or Community kitchen where all classes of people could eat together.
• “Shabad” was a prayer song composed by Guru Nanak
• His ideas later paved the way for the formation of Sikhism

Question 32.
How did the Bhakti movement influence the role and recognition of women in medieval society?
Answer:
In medieval society, women were less recognised and respected. However, with the emergence of the Bhakti movement, many women began composing and singing hymns and songs to worship the deity of their choice. This movement provided them a platform to express their devotion and gain recognition. Prominent women like Mirabai, Karaikkal Ammayar, Andal, and Akka Mahadevi became well-known for their spiritual contributions, challenging social norms and advocating for women’s rights and spiritual equality.

Question 33.
Who were some of the notable female figures in the Bhakti movement, and what were their contributions?
Answer:
Notable female figures in the Bhakti movement included:

Mirabai: A Rajput princess from Chittor, Rajasthan, who gave up worldly comforts to devote herself to Krishna, composing numerous Krishna Bhajans.

Karaikkal Ammayar and Andal: Devotee poetesses from Tamil Nadu known for their compositions expressing deep devotion to their favourite deities.

Akka Mahadevi: A prominent figure in the Vira Shaiva movement who led discussions against the social and spiritual oppression of women.

Bahinabai and Soyarabai From Maharashtra and Lal Ded from Kashmir, who also contributed significantly to the growth of the Bhakti movement.

Question 34.
What were the main objectives and characteristics of the Bhakti movement?
Answer:
The aim of the Bhakti movement was dedication to one’s favourite deity through music and devotion. Most of the Bhakti poets were from the so-called marginalised caste groups, and they questioned the caste system and the privileges enjoyed by the Brahmins. Additionally, the movement allowed women to participate in discussions in the Anubhava Mandapam, where their opinions gained recognition, promoting ideas of equality between men and women. The movement also educated people about the greatness of occupation.

Question 35.
Where did the Sufi Movement originate?
Answer:
Sufism is an Islamic devotional movement that originated in Central Asia. The rulers here began to pay more attention to worldly pleasures like wealth, power and luxurious life. It was against such trends that the Sufi movement emerged. The Sufi movement reached India by the 12th century CE. Among the twelve Sufi sects known as Silsilahs, the Chishti and Suhrawardi silsilahs reached India.CE.

Question 36.
What were the circumstances that led to the emergence of the Sufi Movement?
Answer:
The Sufi Movement emerged in the 12th century as a response to the growing wealth and power of the Islamic empire, which some people felt led to a loss of spiritual values. Sufis sought a deeper, more personal connection with God, emphasising simplicity, devotion, and love. They often lived humble lives, focusing on meditation, prayer, and helping others. This movement spread as Sufi teachers travelled, sharing their spiritual practices and teachings, which attracted many followers seeking a more heartfelt and meaningful religious experience.

Question 37.
What were the main ideas propagated by the Sufis?
Answer:
The main ideas propagated by the Sufis include the importance of love and devotion to God, the pursuit of a personal and direct experience with the divine, and the practice of inner purification and self-discipline. Sufis emphasised that true knowledge and closeness to God come through inner spiritual practices rather than strict adherence to external rituals. They taught values such as humility, monotheism, fraternity, humanity, compassion, and tolerance, and often used poetry, music, and dance to express their mystical experiences and spiritual teachings.

Question 38.
Describe the Sufi Movement?
Answer:
Scholars suggest that the word Sufism is derived from the word ‘suf’, meaning wool, or from the word ‘Safi’, meaning purity. Sufis were those who accepted Bhakti as a means to approach God. Sufi scholars thought one of the ways to achieve this was devotional singing. They travelled among the common people and propagated Sufi principles. Emphasis was given to the concepts of monotheism, fraternity, humanity, and devotion to God. Sufism is an Islamic devotional movement which originated in Central Asia. The Sufi movement reached India by around 12th century CE.

Among the twelve Sufi sects known as Silsilahs, the Chishti and Suhrawardi silsilahs reached India. The Sufi masters were the ones who gave importance to spiritual life abstaining from luxurious life. The Sufi master was called Pir (Sheikh) and his followers were called Murid. The Khanqahs, where the Sufis resided, were the social centres of the time. Qawwalis are devotional songs rendered in a special chanting style called Sama in the Sufi centres. During the Sultanate and Mughal periods, Sufis were able to bring about unity among different religious sects.

Question 39.
Match the following

Prominent Sufi Masters	Regions
Sheikh Shihabuddin Suhrawardi	Ajmer
Sheikh Nizamuddin Auliya	Sylhet
Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti	Delhi

Answer:

Prominent Sufi Masters	Regions
Sheikh Shihabuddin Suhrawardi	Sylhet
Sheikh Nizamuddin Auliya	Delhi
Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti	Ajmer

Question 40.
Explain the Growth of Vernacular Languages?
Answer:
Bhakti-Sufi propagators used vernacular languages to spread their ideas among common people. This led to the growth of regional languages. Many devotional poems were composed in languages like Tamil, Punjabi, Bengali, Marathi, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam etc. Many other literary works in vernacular languages were also composed. Urdu, a combination of Persian and Hindi, is an example of India’s cultural integration. Amir Khusru was one of the most prominent writers of the Urdu language during this period. Kabir has enriched the Hindi language. ‘Mahabharata’, ‘Ramayana’ and other works have been translated into various regional languages. This led to the rejuvenation of language and literature.

Question 41.
Fill in the Blanks

Vernacular language	Literary work	Author
Tamil	Nalayira, Divyaprabandham, Thirumuraikal	a) ………………………
Kannada	b) ……………	Basavanna, Akka Mahadevi, Allama Prabhu
Telugu	c)……………	Nannayya, Thikanna, Yarapragada
Hindi	Padmavat	d) ………………..
e) ………………	Jnanappana, Adhyatmaramayanam , Kilippattu, Muhyudheen Mala	Poonthanam, Thunchath Ramanujan Ezhuthachan, Qasi Muhammad

Answer:
a) Alvars, Nayanars
b) Vachanas
c) Translation of Mahabharata
d) Malik Muhammad Jaisi
e) Malayalam

Question 42.
What role did the Bhakti-Sufi movements play in medieval Indian society?
Answer:
The Bhakti-Sufi movements played a critical role in reducing conflicts, bringing people together, and creating an atmosphere of peace and harmony.

Question 43.
How have the Bhakti-Sufi movements influenced modern Indian society?
Answer:
The hallmarks of modern Indian society, such as communal harmony, unity in diversity, fraternity, equality, pluralism, discrimination against women, growth of regional language, Hindu-Muslim unity, religious tolerance, attitude against caste discrimination and attitude to question imposed customs have evolved from the influence of Bhakti-Sufi movements.

Question 44.
Write the major ideas of Bhakti and Sufi Movements.
Answer:

Aspect	Bhakti Movement	Sufi Movement
Origin	Originated in South India in the 7th century	Originated in India by the 12th century
Key Philosophy	Devotion to a personal god (bhakti)	Mystical union with God through love (Sufism)
Central Beliefs	Love and devotion to a personal deity. Salvation through devotion (bhakti)	Love and devotion to Allah. Inner mystical experience
Social Aspect	Emphasised equality and rejected caste distinctions, Emphasised a personal bond with God	Emphasised equality and fraternity, Rejected social hierarchies and formalism
Religious Practices	Singing hymns (bhajans) Community singing and prayer	Spiritual practices Poetry and music (qawwali)
Key Figures	Guru Nanak, Kabir,Basavanna, Mirabai	Sheikh Shihabuddin Suhrawardi, Sheikh Nizamuddin Auliya, Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti
Impact on Society	Fostered unity and social harmony, Promoted vernacular languages and literature	Spread Islam through peaceful means, Promoted cultural synthesis and tolerance
Literary Contributions	Rich devotional literature in regional languages	Rich Sufi poetry and literature.
Role of Women	Women saints like Mirabai played significant roles

Question 45.
Why are Bhakti-Sufi movements considered important in the context of Indian society?
Answer:
Bhakti-Sufi movements are considered important because they laid the foundation for key societal values like communal harmony, unity in diversity, and pluralism, which are essential for the peaceful coexistence and progress of Indian society.

Question 46.
What are Qawwalis? Where are they performed?
Answer:
Qawwalis are devotional songs rendered in a special chanting style called Sama, performed in the Sufi centres.

Question 47.
During which periods were Sufis able to bring about unity among different religious sects?
Answer:
During the Sultanate and Mughal periods, Sufis were able to bring about unity among different religious sects.

Question 48.
Write the names of three major Sufi Masters in India and their associated regions.
Answer:

• Sheikh Shihabuddin Suhrawardi: Sylhet
• Sheikh Nizamuddin Auliya: Delhi
• Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti: Ajmer

Std 7 Social Science Medieval India: Cultural Movements Notes

• Bhakti is the total submission of one’s life to God.
• The ideas and activities that arise out of Bhakti are known as Bhakti movement.
• The Bhakta poets were devotees of Vishnu, known as Alvars, and devotees of Shiva, known as Nayanars.
• The Bhakti movement emerged in Tamil Nadu.
• The writings of the Alvars came to be known as “Nalayira Divyaprabandham”.
• The writings of the Nayanars were titled as “Thirumuraikal”.
• Characteristics of the Bhakti Movement
  • Composition and singing of devotional songs in vernacular languages
  • Deep devotion to the beloved deity
  • Love and Submission to God
  • Access to all irrespective of caste
  • Equal participation of women
• Basavanna was a philosopher, social reformer and poet who lived in Kannada Desa in the 12th century.
• He decided to make people aware of the social and religious discrimination that existed in the society and endeavoured to wipe them out.
• Kabir, a propagator of the Bhakti movement who lived in Northern India (present-day Uttar Pradesh) in the 15th century.
• He questioned the caste system, untouchability, religious rituals, post-death rites, idol worship etc. and rejected religious traditions and external rituals of religions.
• Guru Nanak was born in 15th century in the village of Talwandi (now in Pakistan) in Sheikhpura, Punjab
• He promoted the ideals of equality, brotherhood, love, goodness, and religious tolerance. Mirabai was a Rajput princess who lived in Chittor, Rajasthan.
• Krishna Bhajans were composed by Mirabai.
• Karaikkal Ammayar, Andal, Akka Mahadevi, Bahinabai, Soyarabai and Lal Ded also contributed to the growth of the Bhakti movement.
• The aim of the Bhakti movement was dedication to one’s favourite deity through music and devotion.
• Women were allowed to participate in discussions in the Anubhava Mandapam.
• The Bhakti movement was also able to educate people about the greatness of occupation.
• Scholars suggest that the word Sufism is derived from the word ‘suf’, meaning wool, or from the word ‘Safi’, meaning purity.
  Emphasis was given to the concepts of monotheism, fraternity, humanity, and devotion to God.
• Sufism is an Islamic devotional movement which originated in Central Asia.
• The Sufi movement reached India by the 12th century CE.
• Bhakti-Sufi propagators used vernacular languages to spread their ideas among common people.
• This led to the growth of regional languages.
• Many devotional poems were composed in languages like Tamil, Punjabi, Bengali, Marathi, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam etc.
• Amir Khusru was one of the most prominent writers of the Urdu language during this period. Bhakti-Sufi movements have played a critical role in reducing conflicts, bringing people together and creating an atmosphere of peace and harmony.
• These movements were successful in bringing the ideas of different religions to the common people.
• The influence of Bhakti and Sufi ideas helped people belonging to different castes and religions to co-exist.
• The hallmarks of modern Indian society, such as communal harmony, unity in diversity, fraternity, equality and pluralism, have evolved from the influence of Bhakti-Sufi movements.