Topic : Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues. Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
1. Present a sketch of major Sufi orders in India. What was their goal? Explain. (250 words)
Reference: Medieval Indian History NCERT by R S Sharma
Why the question:
The question is based on the theme of major Sufi orders that prevailed in India and their goals.
Key Demand of the question:
Account in detail for major Sufi orders in India and present their goals.
Directive:
Explain – Clarify the topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms where ever appropriate, and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Start by explaining what you understand by Sufi orders. Sufism has a history in India evolving for over 1,000 years.
Body:
There are three Sufi orders:
- Silsilahs – The Sufis Formed Many orders – silshilas. By the thirteenth century, there were 12 silsilahs.
- Khanqas – The Sufi saints live in khanqas. Devotees of religions came to these khanqas to seek the blessings of Saints.
- Sama – Music and dances session, called Sama.
Provide first for their early history. The core concept of Sufi Movement is Darikh-i-Duniya / Wahad-ul-wahjud, meaning “Universal Brotherhood”. It outwardly rejected the religion and emphasized love and devotion to God and compassion towards all fellow human beings.
Explain how they tried to transform Islam and promote secular fabric of India.
Discuss their key goals.
Conclusion:
Conclude with their importance.
