Basaveshwara – A visionary of total revolution

  • It is evident that the seeds of modern concepts of ‘sarvodaya’ and ‘total revolution’ were sowed in Karnataka, during twelfth century itself  by the great revolutionary-Basaveshwara. His practical approach and act of  establishment of ‘Kalyana Rajya’  (Welfare state) brought  a  new  status  and  position  for all  the citizens of the society, irrespective of  class, caste creed and sex.  Thus the main aim of Vachana (poetry) movement, led by Basaveshwara was welfare of all. He proclaimed this as- “Sakala jeevatmarige lesu”(welfare of all).
  • Anubhavamantapa, which was established by him  was a common forum for all, including downtrodden, untouchables  and women to discuss about  the prevailing problems of socio, economic and political strata including religious and spiritual  principles along with personal problems. Hence it was an open platform for all those activists who involved themselves in bringing a radical change in the contemporary society. Discussions here were written in the form of “Vachanas”.
  • Basaveshwara gave two very important socio-economic principles. They are- “Kayaka” (Work: Divine work) and “Dasoha” (Distrubution: Equal distribution). According to this, every individual of the society should take up the job of his choice and perform it with all sincerity. All members of the society are labourers (Kayakajeevigalu). Kayaka is not mere a work, but it is the way of realising God. It teaches the concept of dignity of labour.
  • Kayaka must be followed by an accurate income. The income should not be more or less. There must be an equal income for equal work. The worker (Kayakajeevi) may lead his day-today life by his hard earned income. But he should not preserve the money or property for tomorrow. He must utilise the surplus money for the society and poors. This concept is called –“Dasoha”. Thus by advocating this principle, Basaveshwara gave the concept of equal distribution of wealth to the society.

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