The recent decision of the Indian Central Government denying the Karnataka government’s request to legally recognize Lingayats as a separate religion has sparked significant discussion. The minority status was granted to the Lingayats by the Karnataka government in March 2018 following the Nagamohan committee recommendations. However, the proposal was rejected by the Central Government on two main counts: historical classification of Lingayats under Hindus and impact on the Scheduled Caste (SC) status of Lingayat members.
Historical Background and Classification of Lingayats
Lingayats, also known as Veerashaivas, have been traditionally categorized as Hindus since India’s first official census in 1871. They are seen as a religious sect of Hinduism. “Lingayat” refers to individuals who adorn their bodies with a personal linga, a representation of God Shiva, obtained during initiation rites.
Lingayats are disciples of Basaveshwara, a social reformer, philosopher, and poet of the 12th century. He stands as a significant figure for his stand against the caste system and Vedic rituals. Instead, he supported monotheism, advocating the worship of one deity, Linga (Shiva), which represents universal consciousness qualified by universal energy (Shakti).
Despite this background, Lingayats were classified as a Hindu subcaste called “Veerashaiva Lingayats” and considered Shaivites.
Controversies Surrounding the Distinction of Lingayats
Lingayats have sought to differentiate themselves from Hindu Veerashaivas, who uphold the Vedas and the caste system, beliefs Basaveshwara opposed.
Veerashaivas are devotees of five religious centers, called Pancha Peethas. These peethas mirror the four peethas established by Adi Shankara.
| Peethas followed by Veerashaivas |
|---|
| Rambhapuri Peetha |
| Ujjaini Peetha |
| Kashi Peetha |
| Srisailam Peetha |
| Kedar Peetha |
Influence of Basaveshwara on Lingayat Beliefs
Basaveshwara, also known as Basavanna, was a 12th-century spiritual leader in Karnataka who propagated moral, ethical, and spiritual values aimed at establishing a peaceful and purposeful life. He created a new spiritual institution grounded on democratic principles designed to foster universal love and brotherhood. Membership to this institution was open to anyone, regardless of caste, as long as they were virtuous and of good character.
These teachings underpinned the formation of a new society through Anubhava Mantapa based on several noble principles: belief in only one God, complete surrender to God through devotion, the importance of compassion as the root of all religions, and the treatment of all living beings with kindness for the mutual welfare.
