Lingayatism

Why in news?

• A a sub-sect of the Lingayat  community called the Panchamasali Lingayats – who constitute 70 per cent of the community – have launched a campaign demanding 15 per cent reservation under the backward classes quota in Karnataka

About Lingayatism:

• Lingayatism is a Shaivite Hindu religious tradition in India.
• Initially known as Veerashaivas, since the 12th century adherents of this faith are known as Lingayats.
• Lingayatism was founded or revived by the 12th-century philosopher and statesman Basava in Karnataka.
• Lingayat scholars thrived in northern Karnataka during the Vijayanagara Empire (14th-18th century).

Beliefs:

• Worship is centered on Shiva as the universal god in the iconographic form of Ishtalinga.
• Lingayatism emphasises qualified monism similar to upanishadic thoughts but rejected the unquestionablity of Vedas.
• Lingayatism rejects any form of social discrimination including the caste system.
• Lingayats are not cremated, but are buried in a sitting, meditative position, holding their personal linga in the right hand.
• Several works called Vachanas are attributed to the founder of Basava, and these texts are revered in the Lingayat community.

PRELIMS QUESTION

Consider the following statements:
1.Lingayatism was founded by Basavanna in present day Karnataka.
2.They rejected ritualism and supremacy of Vedas.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a)1 only
(b)2 only
(c)Both 1 and 2
(d)Neither 1 nor 2

Answer to the Prelims Question