Context:
The Prime Minister paid homage to Jagadguru Basaveshwara on the occasion of Basava Jayanti.
Basaveshwara:
- 12th Century Social Reformer
- Lived during the reign of the Kalachuri-dynasty king Bijjala I in Karnataka.
- Regarded as the founder of the Lingayat sect and a pioneer of Veerashaivism.
- Advocated for social equality, justice, and dignity of labor.
- Rejected caste hierarchy, ritualistic priesthood, and temple worship.
- Encouraged spiritual democracy through Anubhava Mantapa, a forum for open discussions on social and spiritual matters.
- His teachings were compiled in Vachanas, which are simple yet profound poetic compositions.
Lingayats:
- Followers of the 12th-century social reformer-philosopher poet, Basaveshwara.
- Basaveshwara – Prime minister during the reign of Kalachuri dynasty king Bijjala (I) in Karnataka.
- Also known as – Veershaivism
- Part of – Sharana movement
- Was against the caste system and Vedic rituals.
- Rejected gender-based discrimination
- Monotheists
- Enjoin the worship of only one God, namely, Linga (Shiva).
Source: PIB
Previous Year Question
Consider the following Bhakti Saints:
1. Dadu Dayal
2. Guru Nanak
3. Tyagaraja
Who among the above was/were preaching when the Lodi dynasty fell, and Babur took over?
[UPSC Civil Service Exam – 2013 Prelims]
(a) 1 and 3
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1 and 2 only
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
Only option 1 and 3 are incorrect. Lodi dynasty fell and Babur took over in 1526.
Guru Nanak (1469 – 1539)
Dadu Dayal (1544–1603)
Tyagaraja (1767 – 1847)