QUES . Discuss the contribution of Sufis to Indian society and culture. UPSC IES/ISS EXAM 2022 General Studies. 200 Words. 5 Marks
HINTS:
Sufism is a mystical branch of Islam that emphasizes personal experience with the divine.The Sufi movement in India commenced in the 11th century A.D. Sufism has had a profound impact on Indian society and culture, particularly during the medieval period. Here are some of the contributions of Sufis to Indian society and culture:
Religious Tolerance
• Sufis were known for their message of tolerance and love for all humanity, regardless of religion or social status. They often preached a message of unity and emphasized the commonalities between different religions.
• This message of religious tolerance helped to bridge the gap between different communities in India and fostered a spirit of communal harmony. Amir Khusrau said, “Though the Hindu is not like me in religion, he believes in the same things that I do”.
• Like the Bhakti saints who were engaged in breaking down the barriers within Hinduism, the Sufis too infused a new liberal outlook within Islam.
• The Sufi movement encouraged equality and brotherhood. In fact, The Islamic emphasis upon equality was respected far more by the Sufis than by the ulema.
• A notable contribution of the Sufis was their service to the poorer and downtrodden sections of society. Nizamuddin Auliya was famous for distributing gifts amongst the needy irrespective of religion or caste.
• The Sufi saints tried to bring about social reforms too.
Literature and Poetry
• Sufis were prolific writers and poets, and their works have had a lasting impact on Indian literature and poetry. The poetry of Sufi saints such as Kabir, Amir Khusro, and Bulleh Shah is still widely read and celebrated today.
• Sufi poetry often used metaphorical language and allegory to convey spiritual truths and was accessible to people of all backgrounds and education levels.
Music and Dance
• Sufis were also known for their contribution to Indian music and dance. They developed a unique style of devotional music, known as qawwali, which combines elements of Indian and Persian music. Qawwali is still popular today, particularly in Sufi shrines and festivals.
• Sufi dance, known as the Sama, is a form of devotional dance that emphasizes spiritual ecstasy and union with the divine. The Sama has had a profound impact on Indian dance forms, particularly Kathak and Bharatanatyam.
Overall, Sufis have made a significant contribution to Indian society and culture. Their message of religious tolerance and love has helped to foster communal harmony, while their literature, music, and dance have enriched the cultural landscape of India.
Must read: https://fotisedu.com/how-did-the-bhakti-movement-contributed-to-the-growth-of-regional-languages/
External link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sufism_in_India
