Former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda has expressed worry about the current decline observed across various sectors. In a letter acknowledging the announcement of the ‘Basavashree’ award by Basava Vedike in his honor, he highlighted the significance of the Vachana saints in today’s context.
Deve Gowda pointed out that intellectuals are becoming skeptical about the system’s deterioration and highlighted the weakening of people’s movements. He stressed the importance of embracing the philosophical depth of Allama, the activism of Basavanna, and the assertiveness of Ambigara Chowdaiah – all 12th-century social reformers who fought against the caste system.
He emphasized Basavanna’s propagation of a divine principle that aimed to eradicate discrimination based on wealth, gender, and social status, promoting monotheism and the dignity of labor. Basavanna’s establishment of a ‘Mahamane’, a people’s institution, by the people and for the people, was noted by Deve Gowda as a significant step that disregarded the palace of King Bijjala.
Deve Gowda praised the special program organized by Basava Vedike on the occasion of Basava Jayanti, commending the efforts. He extended his respects to Sri Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Swamiji, the event’s presiding figure, and expressed humility at being chosen for the ‘Basavashree’ award. Describing Basaveshwara’s movement as a comprehensive revolution encompassing political, economic, social, literary, and cultural aspects, he emphasized the enduring relevance of the concepts of ‘Kayaka’ (work) and ‘Dasoha’ (service).
