Belagavi celebrates Basava Jayanti

Belagavi: The birth anniversary of Basavanna, a prominent poet, social reformer and philosopher of the 12th century was celebrated across Belagavi district, on Sunday. More than 10 Lingayat organisations conducted individual jayanti celebrations in Belagavi city.
Following the elections, the Basava Jayanti procession was not conducted in the city. Akhila Bharata Veerashiava Mahasabha, Basaveshwar Jayanti Utsav Samithi with the cooperation of district administration, Belagavi City Corporation and department of Kannada and culture, organised a simple celebration event at Basaveshwar circle here. A flag was hoisted near the Basaveshwar statue. Additional DC KT Shantala performed puja to Basaveshwar statue and garlanded it. Corporation commissioner Rudresh Ghali, deputy commissioner Bhagyashri Huggi, deputy director of the department of Kannada and culture Vidyavati Bhajantri, corporation members and other dignitaries were present. After this, a simple parade was held from Channamma Circle to Shaniwar Khoot in Belagavi.
Puja and garlanding of Basaveshwar portraits and statues were held throughout the district. Office bearers and members of various Lingayat organisations participated.
Veerashaiva Lingayat mutts in the district organised Basava Jayanti celebrations. Lectures, recitals and singing of vachanas, cultural and spiritual programmes were held to remember Basaveshwar's teachings. Dignitaries commemorated Basaveshwara as the first Indian philosopher and social reformer who fought against the exploitative caste system. He emphasised women's education.
In view of Basava Jayanti people visited the temples of Lord Shiva and Basaveshwar for prayers. Farmers in villages observed Basava Jayanti with traditional rituals.