The word ‘bhakti’ means devotion to . The Bhakti Movement was a reform movement within Hinduism. It began in South India in the 7th century ce and became a popular movement before the arrival of the Turks. The Bhakti saints drew their inspiration from the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita. People were attracted to the principles of monotheism, equality and ritual-free worship. By propagating its principles of one , universal brotherhood and respect for all religions, the Bhakti Movement created conditions conducive to the harmonious and peaceful coexistence of Hindus and Muslims.
Teachings of the Bhakti saints:
There is only one . Everyone is equal in the eyes of .
*** can be reached through love and devotion and total surrender to his will and not through rites rituals and idol worship.
Everyone should lead a pure life.
