What was the reaction of Tamil Bhakti hymns towards Buddhism and Jainism? What was the reaction of this competition?
One of the major themes of Tamil Bhakti hymns was their opposition towards Buddhism and Jainism. This voice of opposition can particularly be seen in the hymns of Nayanar saints. Historians gave the reason for this opposition that there was a competition between these religious communities to attain royal patronage.Even then it is clear that powerful Chola rulers gave their support to Brahmanical and Bhakti traditions. They gave land grants to build Vishnu and Shiva temples. The most magnificent Shiva temples of Chidambaram, Thanjavur and Gangaikonda- Chola Puram were constructed with the help of Chola rulers. A number of bronze sculptures of Shiva were also produced in this age. In the end, we can say that the philosophy of Nayanar saints became an inspiration for all artisans were.
