Kayaka - A Note

Abstract

Basavanna, a 12th-century social reformer and philosopher, revolutionized Indian society through his doctrine of 'Kayaka' (Work is Worship) and 'Dasoha'. Rejecting blind rituals and caste-based discrimination, he established the 'Anubhava Mantapa,' a spiritual parliament that promoted equality, free thinking, and dignity of labor. His Vachanas, written in the common man's language, emphasize internal and external purity, treating work as a path to spiritual salvation ('Kayakave Kailasa'). By advocating for gender equality and the eradication of untouchability, Basavanna's teachings laid the foundation for a progressive, democratic, and egalitarian society based on human values and self-reliance.