Lord Basavanna, also known as Basaveshwara, was a 12th-century philosopher, social reformer, and founder of the Lingayat sect in Karnataka, India. He is considered one of the most important figures in the Bhakti movement of South India. Lord Basavanna's teachings were mostly in the form of Vachanas, which are short poetic expressions in the Kannada language.

Lord Basavanna, also known as Basaveshwara, was a 12th-century Indian philosopher, poet, and social reformer who lived in the southern state of Karnataka. He is considered one of the most important figures in the Bhakti movement and is known for his contributions to Kannada literature, social reform, and the promotion of equality.

Basavanna was born into a Brahmin family and received a traditional education. However, he rejected the traditional caste system and instead promoted the concept of a classless society. He is credited with starting the Lingayat movement, which aimed to bring about social and religious reforms in Hinduism.

Basavanna's philosophy was centered on the belief in a single God who was beyond the reach of caste, religion, or gender. He promoted the concept of "Kalyana Rajya," or a society based on justice and equality for all. He also emphasized the importance of personal morality and spiritual development, as opposed to ritualistic practices.

Basavanna is known for his Vachanas, a collection of poems written in the Kannada language. His poetry dealt with themes such as social inequality, the importance of education, and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge. His writings had a profound impact on Kannada literature and continue to be widely read and studied today.

Basavanna's social reforms included the promotion of equality for women and the abolition of the practice of untouchability. He also advocated for the empowerment of the working class and encouraged the use of vernacular languages in education.

Today, Basavanna is revered as a saint and his teachings continue to inspire people across different communities and religions. His legacy can be seen in the Lingayat community and in the many social and religious reforms that he championed during his lifetime.

Lord Basavanna, also known as Basaveshwara, was a 12th-century philosopher, social reformer, and founder of the Lingayat sect in Karnataka, India. He is considered one of the most important figures in the Bhakti movement of South India. Lord Basavanna's teachings were mostly in the form of Vachanas, which are short poetic expressions in the Kannada language.


Some of the famous works written by Lord Basavanna are:

Vachana Sahitya - This is a collection of more than 30,000 Vachanas composed by Lord Basavanna and other Sharanas (followers of Basavanna). These Vachanas cover various aspects of life and religion and are considered a major contribution to the Kannada literature.


Kudalasangama Devammana Vachanagalu - This is a collection of 369 Vachanas composed by Lord Basavanna. These Vachanas are dedicated to the deity Kudalasangama, who is believed to have inspired Basavanna's spiritual journey.


Basava Purana - This is a biographical work on the life of Lord Basavanna, written by his contemporary, the poet Palkuriki Somanatha. The work describes Basavanna's life, his teachings, and the social reforms he initiated.


Basava Tatva - This is a philosophical work written by Lord Basavanna himself, which explains the principles of Lingayatism and the path to liberation.


Anubhava Mantapa - This is a treatise on the concept of Anubhava Mantapa, which was a council of Lingayat saints established by Basavanna. The book discusses the role and importance of the council in promoting spiritual and social reforms.

These works of Lord Basavanna have had a significant impact on the development of Lingayatism and the Kannada literature.