1) The period between the Sangam Age and the Pallavas — the second to the sixth centuries CE — were trying times for Tamil literature and the Hindu religion. What happened during this time? How did the arrival of Bhakti movement help in revival of Tamil culture and literature? Examine. (250 Words)

During this time, Sangam literature had started losing importance, both in terms of written works and citations. The reason was that kingdoms like Pallava, were more focussed on exapnding their empire rather than contributing to the literature. So, these were hard times for Sangam literature.

1. It can also be comprehended, that for the same reason, other kingdoms like Cholas, Pandyas (along Vaigai) etc and Cheras, failed to uplift the Sangam literature.

Bhakti movement spurred the moment. A push was needed to uplift the literature, which came from Bhakti movement. Because

1. It had nothing to do with the expansion of empires

2. It had philosophical and social basis. So it proved a generic push to Sangam literature. As the latter was based on the social gatherings

3. The reformers who led the Bhakti movement, were patient. They did not drop the movement, even in the face of criticism. So bhakti movement could revive Tamil literature. 

4. It also established the fact that a faithful relationship between the almighty and the worshipper is enough. Recitation by priests is not needed. This was admired by Tamil culture. So, Tamil culture also got revived.