Recently, the Chief Minister of Karnataka laid the foundation stone for the ‘New Anubhava Mantapa’ in Basavakalyan, the home of 12th century poet and philosopher Basaveshwara. This initiative is a significant event as it highlights the life and contributions of Basaveshwara.
About New Anubhava Mantapa
The New Anubhava Mantapa will be a six-story edifice, set within a 7.5-acre plot. The building’s design intends to embody various tenets of Basaveshwara’s philosophy. It aims to recreate the spirit of the 12th Century Anubhava Mantapa, often referred to as the “first Parliament of the world”. This is where philosophers and social reformers held debates under the guidance of Basaveshwara.
Architectural Design
The building will adopt the Kalyana Chalukya style of architecture. This architectural style was prevalent during the reign of the Chalukyas of Kalyan, a significant period in ancient Karnataka’s early medieval history. They encouraged temple construction, dance, and music, much like their predecessors. The opulent structure will consist of 770 pillars, symbolizing the 770 Sharanas (followers of Basaveshwara) who led the Vachana reformist movement in the 12th Century.
Proposed Facilities
In addition to an auditorium with a seating capacity of 770 people, the project also includes several modern amenities. These include a state-of-the-art robotic system, open-air theatre, modern water conservation system, terrace garden, library, research centre, prayer hall, and yoga centre. At its pinnacle, the structure will feature a Shiva Linga positioned on a large pedestal.
Basaveshwara: A Brief Profile
Basaveshwara (1134-1168) was an Indian philosopher, social reformer, and statesman who advocated for a casteless society and fought against caste and religious discrimination. He is the founder of the Lingayatism tradition. Every year, Basava Jayanthi is celebrated in his honour.
Basaveshwara’s Philosophy
Basaveshwara’s spiritual teachings were based on the principles of Arivu (true knowledge), Achara (right conduct), and Anubhava (divine experience). His philosophy triggered a social, religious and economic revolution in the 12th Century.
Kalyana Rajya – Welfare State
During his stay in Kalyana (now known as Basavakalyan) in the year A.D. 1154, he made notable achievements. In this short tenure of twelve or thirteen years, he established the Anubhava Mantapa. This institution acted as the first Parliament of India, where all people could discuss prevailing socio-economic, political, religious, spiritual, and personal issues.
Socio-Economic Principles
Basaveshwara proposed two important socio-economic principles: Kayaka (Divine work) and Dasoha (Equal distribution). According to Kayaka, everyone should choose their work and do it sincerely, while Dasoha advocates equal income for equal work and encourages using surplus money for societal benefit.
Vachana Reformist Movement
In the 12th Century, Basaveshwara led the Vachana (poetry) movement which aimed for the welfare of all and addressed issues of class, caste, and gender in the society.