Wed Apr 30 10:53:48 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka to Build Monument Honoring 12th Century Reformer Basavanna

**Kalaburagi, Karnataka, April 30, 2025** – The Karnataka government announced plans to construct a “Vachana Mantapa” in Kalaburagi to commemorate the 12th-century social reformer Basavanna and the vachana movement. The announcement was made by Medical Education Minister Dr. Sharan Prakash Patil during Basava Jayanti celebrations. The project, included in the 2024-25 state budget, will aim to spread Basavanna’s message of social equality and compassion to future generations.

Minister Patil emphasized the importance of preserving the legacy of Basavanna and the Sharana movement, highlighting their efforts to build a casteless and equitable society. He stressed the need to preserve the practice of Ishta Linga worship and the cultural heritage of Basava philosophy.

B.R. Patil, Vice-Chairperson of the Karnataka State Policy and Planning Commission, spoke on the inclusivity of Basavanna’s ideology, stating that wearing the Ishta Linga is not a prerequisite for following his teachings. He also cautioned against glorifying individuals over ideas, emphasizing the importance of upholding Basavanna’s revolutionary concepts of inter-caste marriage and the dignity of labor.

The celebrations included tributes to Basavanna, felicitations for Kalaburagi’s Deputy Commissioner, and recognition of a UPSC exam topper. The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including MLAs, MLCs, and community leaders. Speakers lauded Basavanna’s humanitarianism and his championing of rational thought. The Basava Jayanti celebrations were described as evolving from simple processions to ideologically rich events since the rediscovery of vachana literature.

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