New Anubhava Mantapa at Basavakalyan

Basavakalyan, an important pilgrim centre for Lingayats, The New Anubhava Mantapa, as envisaged now, 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 him in Basavakalyan where philosophers and social reformers held debates.

• The building will adopt the Kalyana Chalukya style of architecture. 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. 
• The basement is designed for a Dasoha Bhavana (dining hall) where around 1,500 people eat together. On its top, the structure would have a 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.

New Anubhava Mantapa : Lord Basaveshwara

• Lord Basaveshwara is a 12th Century Kannada social reformer, poet and philosopher, who is considered as one of the most revered saints by the Lingayat sect. Reports suggest he was born in 1131 AD in Bagevadi (now in Bijapur, Karnataka) to a Brahmin family.
• Lord Basaveshwara, or Basavanna, worked towards uplifting the underprivileged classes and women, and believed that all humans are equal, irrespective of class, caste, creed, and gender.
• It is said he denounced the sacred janeu thread- worn by upper-caste Hindus, particularly Brahmins- at a young age in hopes to transform himself and achieve spiritual bliss.
• Through his teachings, he revolutionized Indian society.
• Basaveshwara spread his teachings through poetry (Vachanaas).
• He denounced superstitions and rituals, introducing an Ishta linga necklace, bearing a shiva-linga image, to mark equality.
• He also introduced a hall of spiritual acceptance, Anubhava Mantapa, where people of all origins could ask spiritual and mundane questions of life.
• Basaveshwara popularized the principles of Kayakave Kailasa (work is worship) and Dasoha (giving back to society)