Guru Nanak : Medieval Indian History

Guru Nanak, founder of the Sikh religion and a disciple of Kabir. He was born in Talwandi near Lahore. He denounced caste distinctions and rituals like bathing in holy rivers.

His conception of religion was highly practical and sternly ethical. He exhorted people to give up selfish- ness, falsehood and hypocrisy and to lead a life of truth, honesty and kindness.

‘Abide pure amidst the impurities of the world’ was one of his famous sayings. His life was dedicated to establishing harmony between Hindus and Muslims. His followers were known as Sikhs.

His life was dedicated to establishing harmony between Hindus and Muslims. His followers were known as Sikhs. Chaitanya was another well-known saint and reformer of Bengal who popularised the Krishna cult.

He proclaimed the universal brotherhood of man and condemned all distinction based on religion and caste. He believed that through love and devotion, song and dance, a devotee can feel the presence of God

Gnanadeva was the founder of the Bhakti Movement in Maharashtra in the thirteenth century. It was called Maharashtra dharma. He wrote a commentary of Bhagavat Gita called Gnaneswari.

Namadeva preached the gospel of love. He opposed idol worship and priestly domination. He also opposed the caste system.

In the sixteenth century, Ekanatha opposed caste distinctions and sympathetic towards the lower castes. Another Bhakti saint of Maharashtra was Tukaram, a contemporary of Sivaji. He was responsible for creating a background for Maratha nationalism. He opposed all social distinctions.