Seer questions attempts to divide Hindus over Lingayat, Veerashaiva identities at convention

Adrushya Kadasiddeshwar Swami of Kaneri Mutt questioned attempts to separate Lingayat and Veerashaiva identities, and alleged that such efforts were aimed at creating divisions within the Hindu community.

Addressing the Basavadi Sharanara Hindu Samavesha (convention) in Kalaburagi, in Karnataka, on September 27, the religious leader questioned the authority of those opposing the samavesha, and claiming to speak in the name of Basaveshwara and the sharanas.

The seer alleged that some people, who claim to uphold Basaveshwara’s progressive ideals, were selectively opposing Hindu traditions while accepting positions, recognition, and other benefits from institutions associated with the same society. He termed this a ‘double standard’, and said ideological differences should not be used to create divisions among communities.

He alleged that there was an attempt to use Basaveshwara’s name to promote Communist ideology, and to create a separate political and social space by distancing Lingayats and Veerashaivas from the broader Hindu tradition.

He said that the purpose of the samavesha organised in Kalaburagi was to bring such an alleged agenda to the attention of the common people.

The seer questioned comparisons between Basaveshwara’s teachings and Islamic practices. He said similarities in practices, such as fasting, charity, and prayer, did not necessarily make the two traditions identical. He referred to issues such as triple talaq and halal, and said that discussions on religion and reform should be based on the same standards for all communities.

Referring to the Vedas and Manusmriti, he said Hindu philosophical traditions had evolved through a long history of debate and reform, including discussions on the role of women.

He claimed that some religious heads associated with the Basava Abhiyana had benefited with land in prime locations, and said he was prepared to produce evidence if the allegations were challenged.

The seer, however, maintained that the event was intended to protect the larger social and cultural unity of Hindus, and to question attempts to create divisions in the name of Basaveshwara.

The samavesha has triggered opposition from members of Basava Tatva Haagu Samvidhana Rakshana Horata Samiti, who argue that Basaveshwara’s vachana tradition should not be presented within a framework that, in their view, changes its distinct philosophical identity.