03-01-2025
11:30 AM
Basavanna (1131–1167), also known as Basaveshwara, was a revered philosopher, poet, and social reformer in the Shiva-centered bhakti movement. His influence was prominent during the reign of the Kalyani Chalukya and Kalachuri dynasties, particularly under King Bijjala in Karnataka. Basavanna spread messages of equality, rejecting caste discrimination, superstitions, and rituals through his poignant poetry, the Vachanas.
In addition to his literary contributions, Basavanna introduced the Ishtalinga, a necklace featuring a lingam, as a symbol of devotion to Shiva. He offered it to all individuals, regardless of their social status, emphasizing the importance of inner devotion.
Basavanna, born in 1131 CE in Basavana Bagewadi, Karnataka, was a 12th-century social reformer, activist, and saint. Born in a devout Kannada Brahmin family, he led a transformative anti-caste movement that rejected orthodox Hindu rituals and emphasized a personal, emotional connection with Lord Shiva.
Central to Basavanna’s philosophy was the idea of treating one’s body and soul as a temple, emphasizing inner spirituality over external rituals. He highlighted personal spiritual growth as the path to enlightenment and insisted on using Kannada in spiritual discourse, ensuring accessibility for all and eliminating dependence on elite interpretations.
Anubhava Mantapa, also known as the Mahaamane, founded by Basavanna in the 12th century C.E., was a spiritual and intellectual democratic platform in Tipranth, Basavakalyan, Karnataka. It is recognized as the world's first religious parliament, where, mystics, saints, and philosophers of the Lingayat faith gathered to discuss and share ideas.
Basavanna envisioned a society rooted in freedom, equality, rationality, and brotherhood, laying the foundation for a more inclusive and harmonious social order. His contributions include promoting socio-reforms that challenged traditional hierarchies and fostering inclusivity, along with literary works that shaped and spread Veerashaiva philosophy.
Basavanna introduced several social reforms that continue to resonate today, offering guidance on how one should live an ideal life based on his teachings.
Basavanna is credited with several literary works that are highly regarded within the Veerashaiva Lingayat community. These include various Vachanas, such as the Shat-sthala-vachana (teachings on the six stages of salvation), Kala-jnana-vachana (predictions), Mantra-gopya, Ghatachakra-vachana, and Raja-yoga-vachana, all of which contribute to his philosophical and spiritual legacy.
The Sharana movement, led by Basavanna, attracted followers from all castes and produced Vachanas that expressed the spiritual world of the Veerashaiva saints. Basavanna’s radical egalitarian principles led to the establishment of the Anubhava Mantapa, where Sharanas from diverse communities gathered to learn and engage in discussions.
Basavanna's life and teachings represent a transformative period in India's cultural and religious history, marked by an unwavering commitment to social justice, equality, and a direct connection with the divine. These ideals are vividly detailed in the 13th-century Telugu text Basava Purana by Palkuriki Somanatha, which chronicles his life and philosophy. To honor his legacy, significant tributes have been made over the years.
Q1. Who was Basavanna?
Ans. Basavanna was a 12th-century philosopher, poet, and social reformer from Karnataka.
Q2. What is Basavanna known for?
Ans. For founding the Anubhava Mantapa and promoting equality, devotion, and social justice through his teachings and Vachanas.
Q3. What type of literature did Basavanna contribute to?
Ans. Basavanna contributed to Vachana literature, which is a form of rhythmic, philosophical, and devotional writing in Kannada that expressed the ideas of the Veerashaiva saints.
Q4. How did Basavanna promote equality in society?
Ans. Basavanna promoted equality in society by rejecting caste discrimination and emphasizing that all individuals, regardless of caste, were equal in the eyes of God.
Q5. What language did Basavanna use for his teachings and writings?
Ans. Basavanna used Kannada as the language for his teachings and writings, making his philosophy accessible to the common people.
© 2025 Vajiram & Ravi. All rights reserved