SATNAMIS

TAG: GS 1: ART AND CULTURE, HISTORY

THE CONTEXT: The Satnami sect, predominantly a Scheduled Caste community, is known for its deep-rooted historical significance and ongoing socio-political activism.

EXPLANATION:

  • Recently, the community has been in the spotlight due to protests in Chhattisgarh against the alleged desecration of their religious site, Jaitkham, at Amar Cave.
  • The incident led to violent demonstrations, highlighting the community’s longstanding resistance against oppression and their efforts to uphold their religious and cultural identity.

Origins of the Satnami Sect

  • The term “Satnam” (meaning “true name”) was popularized by the 15th-century Bhakti poet Kabir, who advocated for the worship of a formless, absolute God, rejecting idolatry and the orthodoxy of organized religion.
    This philosophy laid the foundation for the Satnami sect.
  • In 1657, Birbhan, a mendicant inspired by Kabir’s teachings, established the first Satnami community in Narnaul, present-day Haryana.
  • According to Mughal court historian Khafi Khan, the Satnamis were primarily engaged in agriculture and trade.
  • They rejected ritualistic practices, condemned caste distinctions within their community, and exhibited a sympathetic attitude towards the poor while opposing authority and wealth.

Revolt Against Aurangzeb

  • In 1672, the Satnamis, then residing in Punjab and Haryana, revolted against the oppressive tax demands of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
  • The rebellion began as a local conflict but escalated into a significant uprising when the Satnamis, armed with rudimentary weapons, fought valiantly against the Mughal forces.
  • Despite their bravery, the revolt was brutally crushed, and thousands of Satnamis were killed.

Revival Under Guru Ghasidas

  • Emergence in Chhattisgarh
    • The Satnami community saw a revival in the mid-18th century under the leadership of Guru Ghasidas in present-day Chhattisgarh.
    • Born in 1756, Ghasidas drew inspiration from earlier spiritual leaders like Sant Ravidas and Kabir, though many contemporary Satnamis do not recognize this historical connection.
  • Teachings and Practices
    • Guru Ghasidas emphasized the worship of one true God, Satnam, and rejected idol worship, which allowed the ‘untouchable’ Satnamis to bypass restrictions on temple entry.
    • He advocated for a lifestyle free from alcohol, tobacco, and flesh consumption.
    • Ghasidas also encouraged the use of brass utensils instead of clay, abandoning leatherwork, and wearing tulsi bead necklaces similar to Vaishnavas and Kabirpanthis.
    • He urged his followers to adopt the surname ‘Satnami’ to shed caste identities.

The Satnamis Today

  • Socio-Political Influence
    • At the time of Guru Ghasidas’ death, the Satnami following was substantial, estimated at nearly a quarter million.
    • Over time, a hierarchical structure emerged within the community, with the guru at the apex and village-level priests managing local affairs.
    • This structure persists, with priests performing various religious and social functions.
  • Integration and Adaptation
    • Many Satnamis have gradually adopted caste-Hindu practices and rituals, seeing themselves as part of the broader Hindu mainstream.
    • Some have even claimed higher caste lineages, such as Rajput or Brahmin, reflecting their complex socio-religious evolution.
  • Political Assertion
    • The Satnami community has become a significant political force, particularly in Chhattisgarh, which has a 13% Scheduled Caste population.
    • Historically aligned with the Congress party, the Satnami vote is now divided among various political parties.
    • Since 2013, some Satnami leaders have shifted allegiances, reflecting their strategic political maneuvering.

Recent Protests and Ongoing Struggles

  • Desecration of Jaitkham
    • The recent protests in Chhattisgarh were triggered by the desecration of the Jaitkham shrine, a sacred site for the Satnamis.
    • This incident led to violent demonstrations, including the burning of the Superintendent of Police’s office and stone-pelting at the District Collector’s office.
    • These actions underscore the community’s frustration with perceived governmental inaction and their determination to protect their religious sanctity.
  • Legacy of Resistance
    • The Satnamis’ historical resistance against oppression, from the revolt against Aurangzeb to modern-day protests, highlights their enduring spirit of defiance and quest for justice.
    • Their activism continues to shape their identity and influence within the broader socio-political landscape of India.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/chhattisgarh-baloda-bazar-protest-who-are-satnamis-9389358/

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