Correct Option (A):
Nagarjuna was a prominent Buddhist philosopher who lived in the 2nd-3rd century CE. He is recognized as the founder of the Madhyamika school of Mahayana Buddhism, which primarily expounded the doctrine of Shunyata (emptiness). His philosophical contributions were centered on wisdom and understanding, distinct from the devotional worship and personal deity focus characteristic of the Bhakti cult.
Incorrect Options:
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Tukaram (17th century CE) was a revered saint from Maharashtra, associated with the Varkari tradition. He was a staunch devotee of Lord Vithoba (a manifestation of Krishna) and his abhangas (devotional poems) are central to the Bhakti movement in the region.
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Tyagaraja (18th-19th century CE) was a celebrated composer of Carnatic music. His numerous kritis are devotional compositions primarily dedicated to Lord Rama, making him a significant figure in the South Indian Bhakti tradition.
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Vallabhacharya (late 15th-early 16th century CE) was an influential philosopher and the founder of the Pushtimarg sect. He propagated the Shuddhadvaita (pure non-dualism) philosophy and emphasized unconditional devotion to Lord Krishna, thereby being a key proponent of the Bhakti movement.