Question

Which of the following statements about Basavanna are correct ?
I. He was a Brahmana and devotee of Lord Shiva.
II. He founded the Lingayat tradition.
III. His compositions are preserved in Kannada tradition.
IV. He supported funerary rites like cremation.

• A. I, II and IV are correct.
• B. I, II and III are correct.
• C. I, III and IV are correct.
• D. II, III and IV are correct.

Hint:

Lingayats challenged the idea of rebirth and encouraged social reforms like widow remarriage. The 'Anubhava Mantapa' was a platform created by Basavanna for spiritual and social discussions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept:

• The Bhakti movement in South India saw the rise of the Virashaiva or Lingayat tradition in the 12th century.
• This movement challenged orthodox Hindu practices, including the caste system and specific ritualistic burials.

Step 1: Verifying Basavanna's background and leadership
Basavanna was originally a Brahmana and a minister in the court of a Kalachuri king; he was a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva.
He established the Lingayat tradition, emphasizing the worship of Shiva through a small linga worn on the body.

Step 2: Analyzing cultural contributions and burial practices
His spiritual and social ideas were expressed in 'Vachanas', which are short poems written in simple Kannada.
Significantly, Lingayats rejected many Brahminical rituals, including cremation; they traditionally bury their dead, believing the soul merges directly with Shiva.
Because statement IV is incorrect, the correct combination is I, II, and III.