UPSC Prelims 2002 Q99: Medieval History – Bhakti Movement
Who among the following was the first Bhakti saint to use Hindi for the propagation of his
message?
- (a) Dadu
- (b) Kabir
- (c) Ramananda
- (d) Tulsidas
Answer: (c) Ramananda
Explanation
First Bhakti saint to use Hindi for his message
| Saint | Language and period |
|---|---|
| Ramananda | First to use Hindi for the propagation of his message; 14th-15th century |
| Kabir | Used a mixed vernacular; disciple of Ramananda |
| Dadu | Later, 16th century, Rajasthan |
| Tulsidas | Later, 16th century, wrote Ramcharitmanas in Awadhi |
Ramananda, who taught at Varanasi and had Kabir and Ravidas among his disciples, was the first Bhakti saint to use the Hindi language to spread his message, so that ordinary people could follow him. Kabir, Dadu and Tulsidas came after him.
Answer: (c) Ramananda.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Dadu lived in the 16th century, after Ramananda.
- (b) Incorrect. Kabir was a disciple of Ramananda and came after him.
- (c) CORRECT. Ramananda was the first to use Hindi.
- (d) Incorrect. Tulsidas wrote in the 16th-17th century.
Key point
Ramananda (c. 1400-1470): disciples Kabir, Ravidas, Dhanna, Sena, Pipa.
Remember
Ramananda: first Bhakti saint to use Hindi.
Common mistakes
- Choosing Kabir, the best-known Hindi poet.
- Picking Tulsidas for the Ramcharitmanas.
- Ignoring the word 'first' in the stem.
Exam tip
'First' means earliest in date: Ramananda comes before Kabir.
Sources
- Satish Chandra — Medieval India
- NCERT Class XII — Themes in Indian History II