Sant Tukaram, also known as Tukaram Maharaj, was a 17th-century poet-saint from the Bhakti movement in Maharashtra, India. His devotional poetry, called abhangas, had a profound influence on the Bhakti movement and continues to inspire people even today.

Tukaram's poetry was deeply rooted in the concept of Bhakti, which means devotion and love for God. He believed that true devotion is not about following rituals and customs, but about developing a deep and personal relationship with God. This message resonated with the common people who were tired of the rigid practices of the Brahminical religion and were looking for a more personal and emotional connection with the divine.

Tukaram's abhangas were written in the local language, Marathi, making them accessible to the masses. Unlike the Sanskrit hymns that were reserved for the elite, Tukaram's poetry was relatable and easy to understand for the common people. This helped in spreading the message of Bhakti to a wider audience and breaking the barriers of caste and class.

One of the key aspects of Tukaram's poetry was its simplicity and universality. He used everyday language and imagery to convey profound spiritual truths. His poems were not just about devotion to God, but also about the struggles and joys of everyday life. This made his poetry relatable and relevant to people of all backgrounds and ages.

Tukaram's poetry also had a strong social message. He spoke against caste discrimination and advocated for equality and brotherhood among all beings. His poems were a powerful tool for social reform and helped in bringing about a sense of unity and harmony among the people.

Another important aspect of Tukaram's poetry was its emphasis on the power of love and forgiveness. He believed that love and compassion were the true paths to God and that forgiveness was essential for spiritual growth. This message of love and forgiveness resonated with the people and helped in creating a more compassionate and tolerant society.

In conclusion, Sant Tukaram's poetry played a crucial role in shaping the Bhakti movement. It spread the message of devotion, love, and social equality among the masses and helped in breaking the rigid barriers of caste and class. His poetry continues to inspire people to this day and his teachings are still relevant in a world that is in dire need of love, compassion, and unity.