The Karnataka state government is contemplating a significant step by declaring Basavanna, the revered leader of the Equality Pioneer Vow movement, as the cultural leader or ambassador of the state.
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The proposal to declare Basavanna as the cultural leader of Karnataka stems from a delegation led by Taralbalu Jagadgurus and Jagadguru Shivratri Desikendra Mahaswamiji. This group, representing a spectrum of influential figures from the Lingayat, Dalit, farmer, labor, and women’s movements, appealed to the Chief Minister to acknowledge Basavanna’s pivotal role in the Equality Pioneer Vow movement.
Source: Hindustan Times
Expressing his respect for the delegation’s unanimous insistence, the Chief Minister welcomed the idea but emphasized that a final decision would be made after cabinet deliberations. The Chief Minister affirmed, “All the wishes of Basavadi Sharan are in our constitution. The objectives of the Vow and the Constitution are the same. Therefore, this important matter will be placed before the cabinet and decided.”
Source: News Karnataka
The delegation, consisting of 48 Swamijis and Sharans, played a crucial role in presenting the proposal. Notable personalities such as Srishaila Jagadguru, Fakira Dingaleshwar Swamiji, Dr. Rajasekhara Shivacharya, and Akka Annapurnatai were among those who participated in the appeal. Ministers MB Patil, Ishwara Khandre, and Basava Committee Chairman Arvind Jatti, along with Chief Minister’s Political Secretary Govindaraju and Naseer Ahmed, supported the delegation during discussions.
Source: Oneindia News
In addition to religious and political representatives, the delegation included prominent figures from the cultural and literary sectors. SG Siddaramaiah, Banjagere Jayaprakash, HL Pushpa, Mavalli Shankar, and Vasundhara Bhupathi were part of the group, showcasing the diverse support for Basavanna’s potential cultural leadership role.
