Vira Shaivism — The Lingayat Tradition and Basavanna
Vira Shaivism, also known as Lingayatism, was either founded or revived by Basava or Basavanna in the 12th century CE. The sect gained prominence in the Karnataka region through his teachings and efforts. Through his poetry and teachings known as Vachanas (sayings or verses), Basavanna spread social awareness among his followers, exhorting them to reject discrimination based upon caste, gender, or economic status.
He introduced the practice of wearing a linga around the neck as a mark of devotion to Shiva and as a discipline for self-purification. It also helped followers feel committed to the movement and cultivate feelings of brotherhood and belonging. Serving as the chief minister of a local ruler, he introduced the practice of organizing religious congregations in specially built spiritual halls known as anubhava mantapas, where people could assemble regardless of caste and gender distinctions and express their love and devotion to Shiva.
Over time, Virashaivism came to be known as Lingayatism in Karnataka and adherent regions, with followers developing a distinct identity as Lingayats. Lingayatism is best understood as a subset of the broader Virashaiva tradition. While the broader sect remained confined to limited groups across India, Lingayatism thrived in the Vijayanagara empire. After India's independence, some Lingayats sought a separate identity distinct from both Hinduism and Virashaivism, though the community is still generally considered a Hindu subsect.
Virashaivism is a theistic tradition whose philosophy encompasses elements of both dualism and non-dualism, often characterized as qualified dualism (Vishishtadvaita). Adherents follow the path of devotion (bhaktimarg) to achieve liberation, prefer direct personal worship over priestly mediation, and favour domestic worship and prayer in the mother tongue over Sanskrit rituals. For more information on the subject, please check the following links.1
Related Resources
Hinduwebsite.com and Saivism.net
External Resources
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