Basava Samskriti Abhiyan to Launch Cultural Campaign in Yadgir

The Basava Samskriti Abhiyan, organized by the Lingayat Mathadhipathigala Okkoota, will arrive in Yadgir district on October 5, 2023. This campaign commemorates the first anniversary of the government declaring the 12th-century social reformer Basavanna as a cultural icon of the state. The socio-religious and cultural initiative will take place across the state until October 6, aiming to spread the philosophies of Basavanna and his contemporaries, known as Sharanas.

During a press briefing in Yadgir on Monday, Shanta Veera Guru Murugharajendra Mahaswamiji, honorary president of the District Sahamatha Vedike and Peethadhipathi of Khasa Mutt in Gurmitkal, announced the plans for the campaign. According to him, the abhiyan chariot will traverse Yadgir, bringing the teachings of Basavanna to the community.

On the morning of the campaign’s launch, activities will commence with a discussion involving students at the Patil Convention Hall. This session will be presided over by Basavalinga Pattaddevaru, the Chairman of the Lingayat Mathadhipathigala Okkoota and a recipient of the prestigious Nadoja award. Notable attendees will include Jagadguru Tontadarya Siddarama Mahaswamiji from Tontadarya Mutt, Panditaradhya Shivacharya Swamiji of Sanehalli, and other influential seers from various mutts.

A special lecture will be delivered by Hulikal Nataraj, founder of the Scientific Research Centre, who will also engage with students during a Q&A session. Additionally, Vishwaradhya Satyampet, founder of Basavamarg Prathisthan, will share insights on Vachanas and the guiding principles of the Sharanas.

The campaign will be inaugurated by Sharanabasappa Darshanapur, the Minister for Small Scale Industries and Public Enterprises, who will also participate in a walk for harmony at Subhas Circle. Various dignitaries, including parliamentarians G. Kumar Naik and Radhakrishna Doddamani, along with multiple MLAs and local officials, are expected to attend.

In addition to the discussions and lectures, the abhiyan will feature seminars, interactive sessions, and even a stage drama, enhancing community engagement and awareness. Local leaders such as Bhimanna Meti, Shivaraj Kalkeri, and Somashekhar Mannur will also support the initiative.

This cultural campaign represents an important effort to promote the values and teachings of Basavanna, fostering a deeper understanding of the historical and social significance of his contributions to society.