Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday extended heartfelt wishes on the occasion of Basava Jayanti, paying tribute to Jagadguru Basaveshwara, the revered 12th-century social reformer and founding saint of the Lingayat tradition.
Communities across Karnataka, especially in the northern districts, celebrated the festival with devotion and enthusiasm.
The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Basaveshwara, a philosopher and poet whose teachings continue to shape the spiritual and social framework of the Lingayat community.
Taking to X, Prime Minister Modi honoured Basaveshwara’s contribution, posting: “On the auspicious occasion of Basava Jayanthi, we remember the profound wisdom of Jagadguru Basaveshwara. His vision for society and his tireless efforts to uplift the marginalised continue to guide us.”
He also shared a video message in which he reflected on the continued relevance of Basaveshwara’s ideas.
“I am happy that I have had repeated opportunities to associate with Lord Basaveshwara and his ideologies. In the 12th century, he deeply reflected on the dignity of hard work and the lives of labourers,” Prime Minister Modi said.
Quoting the saint, PM Modi further added, “Kayakave Kailasa, meaning, ‘through hard work one can attain the blessings of Lord Shiva’s abode, Kailash’. Lord Basaveshwara also said that living one day to achieve a specific goal is better than living a hundred years without any purpose. He showed us the path of karma — serving and assisting other living beings.”
The Prime Minister noted that modern schemes and initiatives draw inspiration from Basaveshwara’s ideals, “In our programmes and schemes, one can clearly see the influence of ‘Kayaka’ (hard work) and ‘Dasoha’ (service). Lord Basaveshwara gave our society immense strength. He emphasised principles of democracy, education, and equality, which are deeply rooted in the foundation of India. The inspiration of Lord Basaveshwara and the spirit of selfless service form the core of our country.”
“The strength of a nation is determined by the strength of its foundations. I convey my best wishes to all followers of Basaveshwara within India and around the world,” PM Modi further concluded.
BJP Karnataka State President BY Vijayendra also extended greetings, remembering Basaveshwara as a global spiritual leader and a beacon of social reform.
“Heartfelt greetings to all on the birth anniversary of the great humanist Jagajyoti Shri Basaveshwara. Anna Basavanna led a social revolution to create an egalitarian society and celebrated the greatness of Vachana literature,” Vijayendra stated.
He further added, “For centuries, he has remained an eternal cultural and social leader in the hearts of Kannadigas. His message of ‘Kayaka’ continues to spread the light of human values across all walks of life.”
Basava Jayanti serves not only as a cultural observance but also as a reminder of the enduring relevance of Basaveshwara’s teachings in promoting social justice, equality, and selfless service in contemporary India.
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