Question

Explain the major features of Virashaiva tradition.

Answer 1

In the twelfth century, the Virashaiva tradition, under the leadership of Basavanna, arose in Karnataka. Lingayats are devotees who worship Shiva in the form of his linga. They oppose the caste system and choose ceremonial burial over traditions like cremation. Lingayats deny the idea of reincarnation and hold that one is united with Shiva after death. They support customs like widow remarriage and post-puberty marriage, encourage equality, and oppose discrimination based on caste. Kannada vachanas include documentation of this custom.