Q. Consider the following statements with respect to the ‘VirSaiva’ movement:

1. It is also known as the Lingayat movement because its followers worship Shiva.
2. Vir Saiva movement had a strong strand of social reforms.

Which of the above is / are correct?
Answer: Both 1 and 2
Notes: Vir Saiva movement arose during the 12th century. Its founders were Basava and his nephew, Channabasava, who lived at the court of the Kalachuri kings of Karnataka. Vir Saiva, also known as the Lingayats, were worshippers of Shiva. So, statement 1 is correct. The Lingayats strongly opposed the caste system. They rejected useless rituals like fasts, feasts, pilgrimages and sacrifices. In the social sphere, they opposed child marriage and allowed remarriage of widows. So, they were arguing for social reforms as well. Hence, statement 2 is correct.