The early medieval Saint Basavanna belonged to:
Last updated Jun 24, 2026
Correct Answer:
Option C —
Virasaiva Tradition
About Basavanna and the Virasaiva MovementBasavanna (1105–1167 CE) was a 12th-century philosopher, statesman, and social reformer who lived in Karnataka during the reign of the Kalachuri king Bijjala I.
Foundation of Lingayatism: He is the founding saint of the Lingayat or Virasaiva (heroic devotees of Shiva) movement.
Core Philosophy: The movement was a radical departure from the traditional Vedic social order. He advocated for the direct worship of Shiva through a small linga (Ishtalinga) worn on the body.
Social Reform: Basavanna was a staunch opponent of the caste system and gender discrimination. He established the Anubhava Mantapa (Hall of Spiritual Experience), which served as an academy of mystics and philosophers to discuss social, economic, and spiritual issues.
Literary Contribution: He expressed his philosophy through simple Kannada poetry known as Vachanas.
Distinguishing the Traditions
Saiva Tradition (B): While Virasaivism is a sub-sect of Saivism, it is distinct because it rejected temple worship and the authority of the Vedas/Brahmins, which are central to traditional Saivism.
Vaishnava Tradition (A): This tradition focuses on the worship of Vishnu and his incarnations (like Rama and Krishna), championed by saints like Ramanuja or Madhvacharya.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
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