Recently, Chief Minister of Karnataka laid the foundation stone for the ‘New Anubhava Mantapa’ in Basavakalyan, the place where 12th century poet-philosopher Basaveshwara lived for most of his life.
It is a ₹500-crore project which is estimated to be completed in two years on a 7.5-acre area and it will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The New Anubhava Mantapa :-
- It will be a six-floor structure in the midst of the 7.5-acre plot and represent various principles of Basaveshwara’s philosophy.
- It will showcase the 12th Century Anubhava Mantapa (often referred to as the “first Parliament of the world”) established by Basaveshwara in Basavakalyan where philosophers and social reformers held debates.
- The building will adopt the Kalyana Chalukya style of architecture.
- Later Chalukyas, popularly known as the Chalukyas of Kalyan or Kalyani Chalukyas, form an integral part of ancient Karnataka history of early medieval period. Kalyan Chalukya rulers patronised temple construction, dance and music, as their predecessors did.
- The grand structure supported by 770 pillars will have an auditorium with a seating capacity of 770 people.
- It is believed that 770 Sharanas (followers of Basaveshwara) led the Vachana reformist movement in the 12th Century.
- On its top, the structure would have a Shiva Linga placed on a large pedestal.
- The project also envisages state-of-the-art robotic system, open-air theatre, modern water conservation system, terrace garden, library, research centre, prayer hall, yoga centre and so on.
About Basaveshwara :-
- Basaveshwara was an Indian philosopher, social reformer and statesman who attempted to create a casteless society and fought against caste and religious discrimination.
- He was born in Bagevadi.
- The tradition of Lingayatism is known to have been founded by him.
- His spiritual discipline was based on the principles of Arivu (true knowledge), Achara (right conduct), and Anubhava (divine experience) and it brought social, religious and economical revolution in the 12th century.
- He established the Anubhava Mantapa, which was a common forum for all to discuss the prevailing problems of socio, economic and political strata including religious and spiritual principles along with personal problems also known as the first and foremost Parliament of India.
- Basava Jayanthi is an annual event celebrated in the honour of the birth of Vishwaguru Basaveshwara.
