Basavanna was a philosopher, poet and statesman born around 1130 CE in the Vijayapura District of present day Karnataka.
Basavanna was a Lingayat saint, who is considered by many as being the founder of the Lingayat tradition. He was a social reformer in the Hindu Shiva Bhakti tradition.
He was a phenomenal thinker who questioned the teachings and traditions of the Vedas and other scriptures. The tradition of inquiry and reform was given a strong impetus through his efforts. He broke through all distinctions in society with his teachings. These teachings provided for a direct path between the devotee and the Lord, through the symbolism of a personal Ishta-linga with the image of Shiva. This Ishta-linga was made available to every person regardless of any distinctions of birth. His philosophy revolved around treating one’s body as a temple and stated that the true God is one within himself.
Basavanna was also a statesman in the court of King Bijjala, serving as Finance Minister and later Prime Minister. He utilised the state treasury to support social reforms and reviving spirituality. He also started the Anubhava Mantapa, a public assembly to discuss spiritual, temporal and social issues. He later resigned as Prime Minister and moved to Kudala Sangama in present day Karnataka for meditation.
He is credited with several literary works expounding his spiritual thoughts. Writing in Kannada, he composed various vachanas that brought his philosophy to the masses.
