Seer questions attempts to divide Hindus over Lingayat, Veerashaiva identities at convention in Karnataka

At a convention in Karnataka, Adrushya Kadasiddeshwar Swami of Kaneri Mutt questioned efforts to separate the identities of Lingayat and Veerashaiva communities, alleging that such actions aimed to create divisions within the Hindu faith. Speaking at the Basavadi Sharanara Hindu Samavesha on September 27, the religious leader challenged the authority of those opposing the samavesha, which purports to uphold the ideals of Basaveshwara and the sharanas.

Swami suggested that individuals claiming to champion Basaveshwara's progressive principles were inconsistently opposing Hindu traditions while accepting benefits and positions from institutions linked to the same movement. He labeled this behavior a 'double standard' and emphasized that ideological divisions should not be used to sow discord among communities.

The seer claimed that there was an attempt to exploit Basaveshwara's name to promote Communist ideology and create a separate political and social space by distancing Lingayats and Veerashaivas from the broader Hindu tradition. He questioned the likenesses between Basaveshwara's teachings and Islamic practices, arguing that despite similarities in customs like fasting, charity, and prayer, the two religions remain distinct.

Swami drew parallels between controversies like triple talaq and halal practices, asserting that discussions on religion and reform should adhere to the same standards for all communities. He referenced the Vedas and Manusmriti, asserting that Hindu philosophical traditions have evolved through a history of debate and reform, including discussions on women's roles. Swami alleged that some religious figures associated with the Basava Abhiyana had gained prime property, and he was willing to provide evidence if challenged.

However, Swami maintained that the event aimed to preserve the larger social and cultural unity of Hindus and to challenge attempts to create divisions under the guise of Basaveshwara's teachings. The samavesha, however, has sparked opposition from members of the Basava Tatva Haagu Samvidhana Rakshana Horata Samiti, who argue that Basaveshwara's Vachana tradition should not be integrated into a framework that some view as altering its unique philosophical identity.