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Lingayatism

Lingayatism is a Shaivite religion practiced in India. It is different from Hinduism and propounds monotheism through worship centered on Lord Shiva in the form of Ishtalinga. Like Buddhism, Jainism, Śramaṇa, Cārvāka and Sikhism, it does not directly follow the Vedas and the caste system. However, Lingayatism does share some beliefs with Hinduism, such as reincarnation and karma. Lingayatism was founded by the 12th-century philosopher and statesman Basava and spread by his followers, called Sharanas.

The adherents of this faith are known as Lingayats. Both the terms Lingayatism and Lingayats are derived from Kannada word lingavanta for the "one who wears a iṣṭaliṅga ". The Lingayat iṣṭaliṅga is an oval-shaped emblem symbolising Parashiva, the absolute reality, and is worn on the body by a cord hung around the neck. The terms Lingayatism and Veerashaivism, which is a Shaivite cult founded by the Panchacharyas which also includes wearing Ishtalinga as a significant ritual of observance, have been used synonymosly, both by public and recognized by Governments, though its validity is the source of the biggest contemporary theological and historical debate related to Lingayatism. Nevertheless, Lingayats are also invariably identified and referred as Veerashaivas.

Contemporary Lingayatism is a rich blend of reform-based theology propounded by Basava and ancient Shaivite tradition and customs, with huge influence among the masses in South India, especially in the state of Karnataka and across Maharastra as well. Today, Lingayats, along with Shaiva Siddhanta followers, Tirunelveli Saiva Pillai, Kashmiri Shaivas, Naths, Pashupaths of Nepal, Kapalikas and others constitute the major portion of the Shaiva population.