Post-Gupta Period:

Que. Throw light on the chief characteristics of the Tamil Bhakti Movement during the early medieval period. [UPSC CSE-2022]

Introduction:

The Tamil Bhakti Movement during the early medieval period was a was a significant socio-religious phenomenon in South India. It focused on intense devotion to personal deities, particularly Vishnu and Shiva, and significantly impacted the region’s religious practices, social structure, and literature.

Chief characteristics of the Tamil Bhakti Movement:

(1) Personal devotion (Bhakti) and emotional expression:

(i) Focus on personal relationship with deity: The movement emphasized a personal, emotional, and direct relationship with the divine, transcending ritualistic practices and caste boundaries. Andal’s “Tiruppavai” reflects her personal longing and love for Krishna, whom she considered her divine consort.

(ii) Expression through poetry: Devotees expressed their love and devotion to the gods through exquisite Tamil poetry. The Nayanars composed hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Alvars sang paeans to Lord Vishnu. These compositions are collectively known as the “Tevaram” for the Shaivites and the “Nalayira Divya Prabandham” for the Vaishnavites.

(iii) Emotional Intensity: The hymns often express a wide range of emotions, from ecstatic joy to deep longing and anguish. E.g. Manikkavachakar’s “Tiruvacakam” showcases profound emotional intensity in his dialogues with Shiva.

(2) Social inclusiveness:

(i) The Bhakti Movement challenged the rigid caste hierarchy by promoting the idea that devotion to God was the only true measure of a person’s worth.

(ii) The movement allowed individuals from all social strata, including those from marginalized communities, to participate in devotional worship. Saints like Nandanar, a Nayanar, were from lower castes and are celebrated for their devotion.

(iii) Inclusion of female saints: The movement also saw the participation of women saints like Andal (an Alvar) and Karaikkal Ammaiyar (a Nayanar), who were revered for their unwavering devotion and contributions to devotional literature.

(3) Opposition to ritualism and priestly domination:

(i) The Bhakti saints often criticized the elaborate Vedic rituals and the dominance of the Brahmin priestly class. They advocated for a more direct and personal form of worship. Appar’s hymns often speak against the empty rituals performed by hypocritical priests.

(ii) The movement promoted simpler, more accessible forms of worship, focusing on singing hymns, prayers, and the chanting of the divine name.

(4) Literary contributions:

(i) The outpouring of devotional hymns contributed significantly to Tamil literature and culture. The hymns were written in simple yet profound Tamil, making them accessible to the common people.

(ii) Use of vernacular language: Unlike the predominantly Sanskrit literature of the time, the use of Tamil helped in spreading the Bhakti ideals among the masses.

(iii) Nayanars (Shaivite Saints): The Nayanars composed devotional hymns in praise of Lord Shiva. Their works are collected in the “Thirumurai.” E.g.-

Appar (Tirunavukkarasar): Known for his Tevaram hymns, he used simple Tamil to convey his deep devotion.

Sambandar: A child prodigy who composed many hymns filled with fervor and love for Shiva.

Sundarar: His poems reflect his personal relationship with Shiva, addressing the deity as a friend.

Manikkavachakar: His work “Tiruvacakam” is a collection of hymns expressing deep devotion and philosophical insights.

(iv) Alvars (Vaishnavite Saints): The Alvars wrote hymns dedicated to Lord Vishnu, compiled in the “Nalayira Divya Prabandham.” E.g.-

Periyalvar: Known for his “Tiruppallandu,” which praises Vishnu.

Andal: The only female Alvar, known for her “Tiruppavai,” a collection of 30 hymns sung during the Tamil month of Margazhi.

Nammazhvar: Considered the greatest Alvar, his works include “Tiruvaymoli,” which explores the themes of devotion and surrender.

Thirumangai Alvar: Known for his extensive travels and compositions describing Vishnu’s temples.

(5) Temple-centric worship:

(i) The Bhakti Movement led to the revival and construction of numerous temples dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu. These temples became centers of community life and devotional activities.

(ii) Temples played a crucial role in the socio-cultural life of the community, serving as venues for festivals, music, dance, and other artistic expressions.

6. Impact on Tamil culture, society and politics:

(i) Language and literature: The movement elevated Tamil as a literary and religious language, making religious texts accessible to the common people. E.g.- The “Tevaram” and “Divya Prabandham” are seminal works of Tamil literature and remain central to Tamil religious life.

(ii) Temple architecture and art: The movement spurred the construction and enhancement of many temples, fostering a distinct style of Dravidian architecture. E.g.- The grand temples of Tamil Nadu, such as the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur and the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, reflect the movement’s influence.

(iii) Influence on Rulers: The movement had a profound impact on the political landscape, with many rulers patronizing the Bhakti saints and the construction of temples. The Pallavas, Pandyas, and Cholas, for instance, supported the Bhakti poets and their missions.

(7) Philosophical and theological developments:

(i) Advaita Vedanta influence: The Bhakti Movement interacted with existing philosophical schools, such as Advaita Vedanta, contributing to theological discussions. E.g.- Manikkavachakar’s hymns incorporate elements of Advaita philosophy, emphasizing the unity of the individual soul with the supreme divine.

(ii) Concept of Prapatti: In Vaishnavism, the concept of “prapatti” (complete surrender to God) became central, highlighting total dependence on the divine for salvation. E.g.- Nammazhvar’s “Tiruvaymoli” frequently explores the theme of surrender to Vishnu.

(8) Formation of religious communities:

(i) Shaiva and Vaishnava communities: The movement led to the formation of distinct Shaiva and Vaishnava communities, each with their own practices, temples, and traditions. E.g.- The Shaiva Siddhanta tradition and the Srivaishnava tradition in Tamil Nadu both trace their roots to the Bhakti Movement.

(ii) Guru-disciple tradition: The Bhakti saints often had disciples, creating lineages that continued their teachings and devotional practices. E.g.- The lineage of the 63 Nayanars and the 12 Alvars has been preserved and venerated through centuries. 

Conclusion:

The Tamil Bhakti Movement of the early medieval period was marked by a profound emphasis on personal devotion, inclusivity, and social reform. It produced a rich body of devotional literature that elevated Tamil as a religious language, influenced temple architecture, and shaped the religious practices of the region. The movement’s legacy continues to inspire and guide the spiritual lives of millions in Tamil Nadu and beyond.