Sant Tukaram, also known as Tukaram Maharaj, was a prominent poet-saint of the Bhakti movement in India during the 17th century. He was a strong advocate of social equality and his teachings had a significant impact on the caste system in India.

One of the key teachings of Sant Tukaram was the concept of "bhakti" or devotion to God. He believed that true devotion to God transcends all social barriers, including caste. This was a revolutionary idea in a society where caste divisions were deeply ingrained and strictly enforced. Sant Tukaram's teachings emphasized that all individuals, regardless of their caste, were equal in the eyes of God.

Through his poems and teachings, Sant Tukaram challenged the rigid caste system and advocated for social equality. He rejected the notion of high and low castes and encouraged people to treat each other with respect and compassion. This message of inclusivity and unity resonated with people from all walks of life, and many followers of Sant Tukaram came from lower castes.

Furthermore, Sant Tukaram's teachings also emphasized the importance of inner purity over external rituals and social status. He believed that true devotion to God was not dependent on one's caste or social position, but on the purity of one's heart and intentions. This challenged the traditional belief that one's caste determined their spiritual worth.

Sant Tukaram's teachings also had a practical impact on the caste system. He actively worked towards breaking down caste barriers by organizing community feasts where people from all castes could eat together. This was a radical act in a society where people from different castes were not allowed to share meals. These feasts, known as "satyanarayan pooja", became a symbol of social equality and were seen as a way to bridge the gap between different castes.

The teachings of Sant Tukaram had a lasting impact on the caste system in India. His message of social equality and inclusivity inspired many people to question the rigid caste system and work towards its abolition. His teachings also paved the way for future social reform movements, such as the Dalit movement, which aimed to uplift the lower castes and promote social equality.

In conclusion, Sant Tukaram's teachings had a profound effect on the caste system in India. Through his message of devotion to God and social equality, he challenged the traditional notions of caste and inspired people to strive towards a more inclusive and egalitarian society. His legacy continues to influence the social and cultural fabric of India, making him a revered figure in the country's history.