The Great Drought of India in 1789 was exacerbated by an intense El Niño pattern, leading to a catastrophic failure of the monsoon rains. This resulted in the devastating Skull Famine, which left millions dead due to starvation and malnutrition. The drought and its consequences highlighted the vulnerabilities of agrarian societies to climatic changes and the need for effective governance and disaster response strategies.

The Great Drought of India in 1789 accelerated a shift toward devotional bhakti poetry, as writers sought solace in faith amidst widespread desolation. This transition marked a departure from traditional secular court lyrics, emphasizing the spiritual resilience of communities facing hardship.