Belagavi, December 9 (IANS): Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday praised social reformer Basavanna, saying religion cannot exist with hierarchies or discrimination.

“Basavanna, a 12th-century social reformer, taught us that compassion is the essence of religion, and he explained it in a way that even uneducated people could understand. Religion cannot exist with hierarchies or discrimination,” the chief minister said after unveiling Anubhava Mantapa’s painting.

“It is a privilege for me and I consider it a great honor to unveil the painting. Basavanna and his followers led a remarkable social revolution in the 12th century to eliminate inequality, caste discrimination and exploitation. Their vision was to build an egalitarian and caste-free society,” the Chief Minister said.

He added that in those days, marriages were determined by caste and a person’s worth was not judged by talent or merit but by caste and varna.

“Leaders like Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka, former CM CN Ashwath Narayan, BJP MP Basanagouda Patil Yatnal and myself, along with Home Minister G. Parameshwara, Minister of Justice HK Patil and Food Minister KH Muniyaappa, are all Shudras. Historically, people like us have been discriminated against simply because of our caste,” Siddaramaiah pointed out.

He said the caste system has been maintained by those who benefit from its inequalities, adding that it is they who perpetuate this discrimination.

“Kuvempu, the legendary Kannada language author, said that all human beings are born equal, and Kanaka Dasa, the 15th century saint, poet and social reformer, asked us not to divide ourselves along caste lines. These words resonate deeply with the teachings of Basavanna,” the Chief Minister said.

He said Anubhava Mantapa, in many ways, is similar to today’s legislative assemblies and Parliament, adding that it was inclusive, bringing together representatives from all castes and women.

“Allama Prabhu, a member of a lower community, was the president. History also shows us that such inclusive forums existed during the time of Buddha, with representatives from all castes and religions. We must remember the words of Ambedkar: Those who do not know history cannot create history. Education was once denied to Shudras and women, but Basavanna and his followers rejected this practice, ensuring inclusion in their society,” he said.

The Chief Minister said Ram Manohar Lohia had rightly said that the caste system had immobilized our society, adding that real progress can only happen when we allow economic and social mobility.

“The caste system is like dirt deposited at the bottom of a well. When stirred, it briefly moves aside, but quickly resurfaces. Basavanna’s vision, already 850 years ago, was to build a society free of these barriers. I am proud that during my tenure, we unveiled the painting of Anubhava Mantapa. It is a fitting tribute to Basavanna’s enduring legacy,” the Chief Minister said.