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PM Modi Honors Basaveshwara's Legacy of Equality on Basava Jayanti

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings on Basava Jayanti, paying tribute to the 12th-century philosopher and social reformer Basaveshwara. Basaveshwara, a key figure in the Bhakti movement, used poetry to advocate for social equality, justice, and devotion while opposing caste and gender discrimination. He introduced the Ishtalinga as a symbol of personal divinity and established the Anubhava Mantapa, an inclusive forum for spiritual discourse. He is remembered as a pioneering champion for the rights of the underprivileged and women.

Key Points: PM Modi Pays Tribute to Social Reformer Basaveshwara

  • PM Modi pays tribute on Basava Jayanti
  • Basaveshwara was a 12th-century social reformer
  • He championed equality and opposed caste hierarchy
  • He established the inclusive Anubhava Mantapa
2 min read

PM Modi pays tribute to social reformer Basaveshwara on Basava Jayanti, calls his teachings inspirational

PM Narendra Modi honors 12th-century philosopher Basaveshwara on Basava Jayanti, calling his teachings on equality and justice an inspiration.

"His visionary outlook for a just society and his unwavering efforts to empower the people always remain an inspiration to us. - Narendra Modi"

New Delhi, April 20

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday extended greetings on the occasion of Basava Jayanti, paying tribute to 12th-century philosopher and social reformer Basaveshwara and his teachings.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, "On the special occasion of Basava Jayanti, devout salutations to Jagadguru Basaveshwara and his eternal teachings. His visionary outlook for a just society and his unwavering efforts to empower the people always remain an inspiration to us."

Basaveshwara, also known as Basavanna, is revered particularly by the Lingayat community and is widely regarded as a pioneer of social reform in India. A key figure in the 12th-century Bhakti movement centred on Lord Shiva, he used poetry, known as Vachanas, to spread awareness about equality, justice, and devotion.

He strongly opposed caste hierarchy, gender discrimination, and ritualistic practices, advocating instead for a society rooted in fairness and inclusivity. Basavanna introduced the concept of wearing the Ishtalinga, symbolising a direct and personal connection with the divine, irrespective of one's social standing.

He also established the Anubhava Mantapa, often described as a hall of spiritual experience, where individuals from diverse backgrounds, including women, could freely engage in discussions on philosophical and social issues.

Remembered as a champion of equality, he is also considered to be a great social reformer who stood for the rights of the underprivileged classes and women.

- ANI

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R
Rohit P
A true visionary ahead of his time. The Anubhava Mantapa was essentially India's first parliament for spiritual and social discourse, open to all. His fight against caste discrimination is an inspiration.
S
Siddharth J
While it's good to pay tribute, I wish the focus was more on implementing his core teachings in today's policies. We still see so much caste and gender-based discrimination. Respecting a reformer means acting on his principles.
A
Ananya R
As a student of history, Basavanna's life is fascinating. He empowered women and lower castes in the 12th century! His concept of Ishtalinga to bypass priestly hierarchy was revolutionary. We need to teach more about such Indian reformers in schools.
V
Vikram M
Basava Jayanti greetings to all! His message of 'Kayakave Kailasa' (Work is Worship) is something every Indian should live by. True devotion lies in honest labor and treating everyone equally.
K
Kavya N
My grandmother used to recite his Vachanas. Simple poetry with such deep meaning about life, god, and society. It's good to see national recognition for figures beyond just mainstream history. A great part of our diverse heritage.

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