Medieval Hinduism History
Explore the medieval period of Hinduism: Gupta Empire, Bhakti movement, temple architecture, and the flourishing of Hindu culture during this transformative era.
Historical Timeline
Gupta Empire (320-550 CE)
The golden age of classical Hinduism, marked by cultural and artistic achievements.
Foundation of Gupta Empire
Chandragupta I establishes the Gupta dynasty.
Reign of Chandragupta II
Peak of Gupta power and cultural flourishing.
Classical Sanskrit Literature
Kalidasa and other poets create masterpieces.
Decline of Gupta Empire
Huna invasions and internal conflicts weaken the empire.
Regional Kingdoms (550-1200 CE)
Period of regional Hindu kingdoms and cultural diversity.
Pallava Dynasty
Temple architecture and cultural patronage in South India.
Chola Empire
Maritime power and temple building in Tamil Nadu.
Rashtrakuta Dynasty
Cultural achievements and temple architecture in Deccan.
Chalukya and Hoysala
Temple building and cultural patronage in Karnataka.
Bhakti Movement (600-1600 CE)
Devotional movement emphasizing personal relationship with the divine.
Early Bhakti Saints
Alvars and Nayanars in South India.
North Indian Bhakti
Ramananda and his disciples spread devotion.
Medieval Bhakti Saints
Kabir, Mirabai, Tulsidas, and other saints.
Islamic Rule and Hindu Response (1200-1700 CE)
Period of Muslim rule and Hindu cultural adaptation.
Delhi Sultanate
Beginning of Muslim rule in North India.
Mughal Empire
Babur establishes Mughal rule in India.
Reign of Akbar
Religious tolerance and cultural synthesis.
Hindu Cultural Revival
Religious and cultural responses to Islamic rule.
Key Figures
Key Contributions:
- Shakuntala
- Meghaduta
- Raghuvamsha
- Classical Sanskrit poetry
Key Contributions:
- Vishishtadvaita philosophy
- Bhakti theology
- Commentary on Brahma Sutras
- Sri Vaishnavism
Key Contributions:
- Dvaita philosophy
- Dualistic theology
- Commentary on Vedanta
- Madhva tradition
Key Contributions:
- Sant tradition
- Poetry and songs
- Social reform
- Interfaith harmony
Key Contributions:
- Devotional poetry
- Krishna bhakti
- Women's spirituality
- Cultural influence
Key Contributions:
- Ramcharitmanas
- Ram bhakti
- Hindi literature
- Cultural synthesis
Cultural Achievements
- Nagara style temples
- Dravida style temples
- Vesara style temples
- Rock-cut architecture
- Classical Sanskrit drama
- Bhakti poetry
- Regional literature
- Religious texts
- Advaita Vedanta
- Vishishtadvaita
- Dvaita philosophy
- Bhakti theology
- Classical dance forms
- Carnatic music
- Temple sculpture
- Painting traditions
Religious Movements
Key Features:
Key Features:
Key Features:
Study Resources
Essential medieval Hindu texts:
- • Bhakti poetry
- • Philosophical texts
- • Temple inscriptions
- • Historical chronicles
Understanding medieval India:
- • Gupta Empire
- • Regional Kingdoms
- • Islamic Rule
- • Cultural Exchange
Medieval Hindu architecture:
- • Temple Complexes
- • Rock-cut Monuments
- • Sculpture and Art
- • Urban Planning
Continue Your Study
The medieval period represents a golden age of Hindu culture and spirituality. Explore the modern period to see how Hinduism continues to evolve and adapt.