RAS question
The Ramsnehi sect of Rajasthan was founded by:
Correct answer: (D) Sant Ramcharan ji.
The Ramsnehi sect of Rajasthan was founded in the 18th century by Sant Ramcharan ji, whom the Rajasthan District Gazetteer describes as Swami Ramcharanji Maharaj.
Explanation
The Ramsnehi sect is part of Rajasthan's devotional tradition. The Rajasthan District Gazetteer, Karauli, states that its peeth and main centre are at Shahpura in Bhilwara district and identifies Swami Ramcharanji Maharaj, or Sant Ramcharan ji, as its founder. Founded in the 18th century, the sect worships Ram as the formless God. Its four branches are Shahpura, Raipur, Sinhthal, and Khedapa. The Gazetteer also notes the sect's broad religious appeal and its effort to bridge Hindu-Muslim, Jain-Vaishnava, Saguna-Nirguna, Bhakti-Yoga, and Dwij-Shudra divisions. Therefore, Sant Ramcharan ji is the correct answer.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Jambhoji founded the Bishnoi tradition, not the Ramsnehi sect.
- (B) Dadu Dayal is regarded as the founder of the separate Dadu Panth; treating him as the originator of the Ramsnehi sect would conflate two traditions.
- (C) Lal Das ji is associated with a different tradition; Sant Ramcharan ji is regarded as the founder of the Ramsnehi sect.
Concept
In Rajasthan's Bhakti traditions, it is important to match each regional sect with its founder, peeth, and doctrinal emphasis. RAS often tests these links, and distinguishing Jambhoji, Dadu Dayal, Lal Das ji, and Sant Ramcharan ji prevents confusion between the traditions.