Which traditional community in Karnataka worship Shiva in his manifestation as a “linga”?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Virashaivas
In the twelfth century a new movement arose in Karnataka, led by a Brahmana named Basavanna (1106-68), who was a minister in the court of a Kalachuri ruler. His followers were known as Virashaivas (heroes of Shiva) or Lingayats (wearers of the linga). They worship Shiva in his manifestation as a linga, and they remain an important community in the region to this day.
The Alvars, by contrast, were Tamil saints devoted to Vishnu, not a community of Karnataka.
NCERT (2025-26): “3. The Virashaiva Tradition in Karnataka … The twelfth century witnessed the emergence of a new movement in Karnataka, led by a Brahmana named Basavanna (1106-68) who was a minister in the court of a Kalachuri ruler. His followers were known as Virashaivas (heroes of Shiva) or Lingayats (wearers of the linga). Lingayats continue to be an important community in the region to date. They worship Shiva in his manifestation as a linga, and men usually wear a small linga in a silver case on a loop strung over the left shoulder.…” |