Which of the following statements about the Vaishnava saint of Assam,

Which of the following statements about the Vaishnava saint of Assam, Shankardeva, is/are correct ?

  • His teachings are often known as the Bhagavati dharma.
  • He encouraged the establishment of satras or monasteries and namghars or prayer halls for the transmission of spiritual knowledge.
  • His major compositions include the Kirtana-ghosha.

Select the correct answer using the code given below :

1 and 2 only
2 and 3 only
1, 2 and 3
3 only
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CDS-2 – 2023
The correct answer is C) 1, 2 and 3.
All three statements regarding the Vaishnava saint Shankardeva are correct.
1. His teachings are often known as the Bhagavati dharma or Eka Sharana Dharma, emphasizing devotion (Bhakti) to a single God, usually identified with Krishna or Vishnu, drawing heavily from the Bhagavata Purana.
2. He established institutions like satras (monastic centers) and namghars (community prayer halls) which served as vital centers for religious practice, learning, and cultural activities, facilitating the transmission of his spiritual knowledge and movement across Assam.
3. The Kirtana-ghosha is one of the most important and popular literary works of Shankardeva, consisting of hymns and narratives related to Krishna, widely used in devotional practices in the Eka Sharana Dharma tradition.
Shankardeva (1449-1568) was a towering figure in the cultural and religious history of Assam, credited with unifying the Assamese society through his devotional movement. He contributed significantly to Assamese literature, music, drama, and dance, shaping many aspects of Assamese culture.