Sant Tukaram, also known as Tukaram Maharaj, was a prominent poet-saint of the Bhakti movement in India. He lived in the 17th century in the state of Maharashtra and is revered by people of all castes and religions for his spiritual teachings and devotional poetry.

One of the main reasons for the significance of Sant Tukaram in the Bhakti movement is his emphasis on the path of devotion or bhakti as the means to attain salvation. He believed that true devotion to God, with unwavering faith and love, was the key to liberation from the cycle of birth and death. This message of inclusivity and accessibility of the path of devotion resonated with people from all walks of life, making him a beloved figure in the Bhakti movement.

Sant Tukaram's teachings were also revolutionary in their rejection of traditional rituals and caste-based discrimination. He preached that true devotion to God was not dependent on one's caste or social status, but on the purity of one's heart and intentions. This challenged the prevailing social norms and hierarchies, and his message of equality and inclusivity continues to inspire people even today.

Another significant aspect of Sant Tukaram's contribution to the Bhakti movement was his use of the Marathi language in his devotional poetry. He believed that devotion to God should be expressed in one's mother tongue, rather than Sanskrit, which was the language of the elite at the time. This helped in making his teachings more relatable and accessible to the common people, and also played a crucial role in the development of Marathi literature.

Sant Tukaram's devotional poems, known as abhangs, are considered to be one of the greatest literary works in Marathi. They are filled with deep spiritual insights, love, and devotion towards God, and are still sung and recited by people in Maharashtra during religious gatherings and festivals. His poems also served as a medium for social commentary, addressing issues such as corruption, inequality, and injustice.

In conclusion, Sant Tukaram's significance in the Bhakti movement lies in his emphasis on the path of devotion, rejection of social hierarchies, use of the vernacular language, and his enduring literary legacy. He continues to be a revered figure, not just in Maharashtra, but in the hearts of people across India, who are inspired by his message of love, devotion, and equality.