The correct Answer is A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2
Explanation
This question assesses knowledge of prominent medieval Indian saints and their associated philosophical or devotional practices. Matching the saint with their specific contribution or practice is essential for understanding the diverse religious traditions of the period.
Statement-wise Analysis
- A. Baba Guru Nanak - 3. Nam-simaran
Correct: Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, emphasized the practice of 'Nam-simaran' (remembrance of God's name) as a central tenet for achieving spiritual liberation.
- B. Basavanna - 1. Vachanas
Correct: Basavanna was a 12th-century philosopher, social reformer, and poet who founded the Lingayat tradition. His teachings are primarily expressed through 'Vachanas', which are short, pithy prose poems in Kannada.
- C. Nizamuddin Auliya - 4. Sama‘
Correct: Nizamuddin Auliya was a prominent Sufi saint of the Chishtiyya order. 'Sama‘' refers to the Sufi practice of listening to music and chanting to induce spiritual ecstasy and connect with the divine. This was a significant part of Chishtiyya Sufi practices.
- D. Shankaradeva - 2. Naam Kirtan
Correct: Shankaradeva was a 15th-16th century Assamese polymath and social-religious reformer. He propagated the Ekasarana Dharma and popularized 'Naam Kirtan' (congregational chanting of the names of God, particularly Vishnu/Krishna) as a primary form of devotion.
Key Takeaway
Understanding the specific devotional practices and literary forms associated with key medieval Indian saints is crucial for identifying their contributions to religious and cultural history.