The Legacy of Muslim Rule in India c10.s3.16

c10.s3.16

Some Bhaktas confined themselves to purely Hindu language and lore with equal if not greater success. Such an one was Tulsidas. Through his *Ramcharitmanas*, he slakes the thirst of those who are weary and heavy laden with the sorrow of the world.¹¹⁶ Sometimes directly and at others symbolically he brings into focus contemporary problems of Hindu society, like the excruciating experience of exile in the forests (seen in next chapter), the relentless struggle of the righteous against *rakshasas*, the unflinching loyalty of the mace-warrior Hanuman (missing in contemporary scenario), the profound love among brothers (lacking in Mughal royalty), and above all the ultimate victory of truth over treachery (personified in Ravan). Tulsidasas impulsion has been immense and lasting. His *Ramayan* is widely read with emotion. Ram, Hanuman and Anjaneya temples are spread all over the country and thronged with devotees.