How many of the following statements about Bhakti poet Namdev is/are correct?

1. He seems to have played a part in transmitting the southern Bhakti to northern India.

2. He was a rigorous monotheist and opposed caste distinctions.

3. He was a devout follower of Kabir.

Select the correct answer.

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

CDS General Knowledge 21 April 2024 Official Paper

Answer 1

The correct answer is 2.

Key PointsNamdev and His Contributions

Namdev, a prominent Bhakti saint, played a significant role in shaping the Bhakti movement in India.
He is known for his efforts in transmitting the Bhakti tradition from the southern part of India to the north, thereby creating a bridge between the two regions' spiritual cultures. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
As a proponent of Bhakti, Namdev emphasized the importance of a personal and direct relationship with God, bypassing the need for rituals and caste distinctions.
His teachings and poetry often spoke against caste discrimination, advocating for egalitarianism and universal brotherhood. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
Contrary to the claim in the question, Namdev was not a follower of Kabir. In fact, it is believed that Kabir, who lived in the 15th century, was influenced by Namdev's work. Namdev preceded Kabir, making it historically inaccurate to label him as a follower of Kabir. Hence, statement 3 is incorrect.
Hence, two statements are correct.

Additional Information

Namdev's poetry and devotional songs, known as Abhangas, are a significant part of Marathi and Sikh sacred literature.
- His works are included in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism.
The Bhakti movement, to which Namdev contributed significantly, was a devotional trend that emphasized love and devotion to God as the path to salvation.
- This movement challenged the traditional caste system and rituals, promoting a more personal and direct approach to spirituality.
Namdev's legacy is not just limited to his poetry but also extends to his impact on the cultural and religious life of India, promoting values of devotion, equality, and love beyond societal barriers.