Though the medieval period in Indian history between 1001 and 1707 AD has been called an age of cultural barrenness or stagnation, the rise of the Bhakthi cult was a unique development of the period. That the Hindu society had not completely lost its vigor and vitality was substantiated by the rise of this movement which helped to meet the problems raised by the religious crisis.

In the field of literature, science and the fine arts, the period saw a further decline. Sanskrit literature deteriorated in quality; but literature iin regional languages developed and local scripts evolved. Except for Jayadeva and Sri Harsha (both of the 12th century), there was no poet of merit during the age comparable with the host of classical writers. Religious topics which were popular themes, were drawn more and more from the epics and the puranas. Alphabets of the vernacular were also fully evolved during the period.

Growth of regionalism is clearly evidenced by the growth of regional literature. An independent Marathi literature was evolved following the writings of Jnanadeva (Gnaneshwar), Ramadas (Dasabodha) and compositions of saints like Namadeva and Tukaram, Kabir, Suradas and Tulasidas enriched Hindi literature.

In Kannada, Veerasaiva saints like Basava, Mahadevi, Allama Prabhu and Harihara. Jain writers like Janna and Ratnakara and Brahmin poets like Kumaravyasa and Purandaradasa enriched the literature.

Impetus was given to Telugu literature also. Srinatha lived in the 15th century - "The Augustan Age" of Telugu literature was witnessed during the 16th century under the patronage of the Vijayanagara literature.

Bhakthi is one of the three paths to attain salvation according to Hindu belief. The other two courses are Jnana and Karma. Leaders of the Bhakthi movement were mystic saints. The cult of Bhakthi formed the vital part of the religious culture of Karnataka. The rule of the Kalachuri Bijjala is very significant in this aspect because under him Sufism was revived in a new form called Veerasaivism or Lingayatism.

Basava was the greatest exponent of this new form of Veerasaivism. He preached his religion for the common man and this gave impetus to the growth of literature in the language of the religion. 

The doctrines of Bhakthi have already been propounded in the Upanishads; but, much emphasis began to be laid on the Bhakthi movement in the 11th and 12th centuries A.D.. This continued for four centuries thereafter.

To be continued....