Consider the following statements:

1. Saint Nimbarka was a contemporary of Akbar.
2. Saint Kabir was greatly influenced by Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2019 Prelims]

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (d)

Explanation:

• Saint Nimbarka:
  • Preached Vaishnavite Bhakti in Telangana region.
  • Not a contemporary of Akbar, lived in 13th or 14th century.
  • Statement 1 is incorrect.
• Saint Kabir:
  • Disciple of Ramananda.
  • Follower of Nirguna Bhakti, lived in 15th century.
  • Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi was an Islamic scholar of Naqshbandi Silsilah who lived in the 16th century.
  • Statement 2 is incorrect.

Therefore, option (d) is the correct answer.