Shakti x Bhakti - The Fearless Women Poets of India

Across centuries, Bhakti poetry has resonated through temples, streets, and the hearts of millions. But among these voices, some rise with a quiet defiance—those of women. In an era of rigid hierarchies, they dared to sing of love, liberation, and equality. Their devotional poetry, delicate yet resolute, were not mere expressions of piety but declarations of justice.

From Akka Mahadevi’s ascetic surrender to Mirabai’s unwavering defiance, from Sule Sankavva’s fearless faith to Janabai’s poetry of self-worth, these extraordinary women carved a space for themselves in a world that sought to silence them. Their words—woven with longing, rebellion, and radical hope—continue to inspire, carrying forward the very ideals that shape India’s constitutional democracy today.

On this International Women’s Day, journey with Radio Azim Premji University into the heart of the Bhakti movement with Amit Basole. Explore the voices of poets, saints, and revolutionaries who reshaped devotion and dissent.

Take your curiosity further and listen to Bhakti Republic with Amit Basole on Radio Azim Premji University.

CREDITS

Akshay Ramuhalli, Bijoy Venugopal, Bruce Lee Mani, Gorveck Thokchom, Narayan Krishnaswamy, Prashant Vasudevan, Sananda Dasgupta, Seema Seth, Shraddha Gautam, Supriya Joshi, and Velu Shankar.