SOCIAL REFORMS AND THE VISION OF EQUALITY IN THE PHILOSOPHY OF BASAVESHWARA

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This research undertakes a critical and analytical study of the social reformist and egalitarian philosophy of Basaveshwara, a 12th-century socio-religious thinker and founder of the Sharana movement in Karnataka. Emerging in a socio-political context characterized by rigid caste hierarchy, ritual orthodoxy, and gender discrimination, Basaveshwara articulated a radical vision of spiritual democracy grounded in equality, dignity of labor, and social sharing.

              The study highlights the philosophical foundations of his thought as expressed in the Vachana literature, focusing on his rejection of caste stratification, opposition to ritual mediation, and advocacy of direct personal spirituality through the concept of Ishtalinga. Particular attention is given to the principles of Kayaka (work as worship) and Dasoha (ethical redistribution), which are analyzed as normative socio-economic doctrines that challenge exploitative structures. The research further evaluates the role of women and marginalized communities within the Sharana movement, arguing that Basaveshwara’s inclusivism reflects an early model of participatory spiritual democracy institutionalized through the Anubhava Mantapa.

                This paper examines Basaveshwara’s ideas on caste reform, dignity of labor, economic redistribution, gender equality, and democratic spiritual practice. It argues that his thought represents one of the earliest systematic critiques of social inequality in medieval Indian history.