The sighted questions at the convention are trying to divide Hindus into Lingayat and Veerashaiva identities

Adrushya Kadasiddeshwar Swami of Kaneri Mutt inaugurating basavadi Sharanara Hindu Samavesha in Kalaburagi town on 27th September 2026. Photo credit: ARUN KULKARNI

Adrushya Kadasiddeshwar Swami of the Kaneri Mutt questioned the attempts to separate Lingayat and Veerashaiva identities and argued that these efforts were aimed at creating division within the Hindu community.

Addressing the Basavadi Sharanara Hindu Samavesha (convention) in Kalaburagi, Karnataka, on September 27, the religious leader questioned the authority of those opposed to the samavesha, claiming that they were speaking on behalf of Basaveshwara and the sharanas.

The seer claimed that some people who claim to uphold Basaveshwara’s progressive ideals selectively oppose Hindu traditions while accepting positions, recognition and other benefits from institutions associated with the same society. Calling it a “double standard”, he said ideological differences should not be used to create rifts between communities.

He argued that there was an attempt to use Basaveshwar’s name to promote communist ideology and create a separate political and social space by distancing Lingayats and Veerashaivas from the wider Hindu tradition.

He said the purpose of the samavesha organized in Kalaburagi was to alert the common people about such alleged agenda.

The seer questioned the comparison between Basaveshwar’s teachings and Islamic practices. He said similarities in practices such as fasting, charity and prayer do not necessarily make the two traditions identical. Referring to issues like triple talaq and halal, he said discussions on religion and reform should be based on equal standards for all communities.

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

He alleged that some religious heads associated with the Basava Abhiyana benefited from land in prime locations and said he was ready to provide evidence if the allegations were challenged.

However, the seer claimed that the event was meant to protect the greater social and cultural unity of Hindus and challenge attempts to create division in the name of Basaveshwara.

Samavesha has drawn opposition from members of the Basava Tatva Haag Samvidhana Rakshana Horata Samiti, who argue that Basaveshwar’s vachana tradition should not be presented in a framework that they believe alters its distinct philosophical identity.

Published – 28 Sep 2026 12:41 IST