The Sant tradition, also known as the Bhakti movement, spread throughout India during the medieval period, primarily through the efforts of the Sant poets and their followers. These poets, including Kabir, Namdev, Ravidas, and others, emphasized the importance of inner devotion and rejected the rigid caste system and rituals of orthodox Hinduism.

One of the main ways in which the Sant tradition spread was through the oral tradition. The Sant poets composed their devotional songs, known as bhajans, in the local languages of the regions they lived in. These songs were then sung and passed down from one generation to the next, spreading the message of the Sant tradition to different parts of India. The simplicity and relatability of these songs made them popular among the masses, and they were often sung during religious gatherings, festivals, and even in daily life.

Another important factor in the spread of the Sant tradition was the patronage of rulers and wealthy merchants. Many rulers, such as the Mughal emperor Akbar, were known to be patrons of the Sant poets and their teachings. They invited the poets to their courts, where they would recite their bhajans and spread their message of inner devotion. This helped to popularize the Sant tradition among the elite and also provided the poets with financial support to continue their work.

The Sant poets also traveled extensively, visiting different regions and spreading their teachings. They would often stay with their followers, who would then spread their message to others in their community. This helped to create a network of followers across different regions, contributing to the widespread popularity of the Sant tradition.

The printing press also played a crucial role in the spread of the Sant tradition. The first printed collection of Kabir's poems, known as the Bijak, was published in the 17th century. This allowed the teachings of the Sant poets to reach a wider audience and helped to preserve their works for future generations.

The Sant tradition also gained popularity among the lower castes and marginalized communities, who were attracted to its message of equality and inclusivity. The teachings of the Sant poets challenged the traditional Hindu caste system and provided a sense of empowerment to these communities.

In conclusion, the Sant tradition spread throughout India through the efforts of the Sant poets, the patronage of rulers and wealthy merchants, the oral tradition, and the printing press. Its emphasis on inner devotion and rejection of social hierarchies made it appealing to people from all walks of life, leading to its widespread popularity and lasting impact on Indian society.