Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
1) The inclusive, humane nature of Bhakti and Sufi traditions not only threaten communalism, they can also unite humanity in India and Pakistan. Discuss critically. (250 Words)
Why this question?
It’s in the list of topics we have given. Moreover, relevance of Bhakti and Sufi traditions are very relevant today. Instead of directly asking about their philosophy, we are asking about their contemporary relevance to address two most pressing issues of our time.
Key demand of the question:
You should discuss how the ideology and philosophy of Sufi and Bhakti have the potential to act as antidote to communalism and enmity between India and Pakistan. Focus more on strength of their basic tenets and how they can be used today to address these problems. Try to be objective and do not praise about these in all of your answer – try to address weaknesses as well.
Directive Word:
Discuss critically– Try to write all dimensions, including few words on how Sufi and Bhakti have morphed these days to become victims of communalism themselves (Click Here)
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction, write a line or two about strength of idea and traditions(Sufi and Bhakti), if revived properly, to address issues such as communalism.
In the body, you should divide answer into 3-4 parts: one on their ideology and basic tenets; Second on how they can threaten communalism and improve India-Pak relations; Third on how they have failed to retain their original thoughts.
In the conclusion, write about the threats these ideologies themselves face and reiterate need for syncretism in times of communalism.
