Q. With reference to the cultural history of medieval India, consider the following statements:

1. Siddhas (Sittars) of Tamil region were monotheistic and condemned idolatry.
2. Lingayats of Kannada region questioned the theory of rebirth and rejected the caste hierarchy.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (UPSC Prelims 2016)
Answer: Both 1 and 2
Notes: The correct answer is [C] Both 1 and 2. Both statements accurately reflect the reformist and heterodox traditions that emerged in Southern India during the medieval period.

• Siddhas/Sittars (Statement 1 – Correct): The Siddhas were a group of tantric practitioners and poets in the Tamil region. They were staunchly monotheistic, worshipping a formless ultimate reality (often identified with Shiva). They were known for their radical social outlook, vigorously condemning idolatry, formal rituals, and the authority of the Vedas. Their poems often mocked the hypocrisy of temple-based worship and emphasized internal spiritual experience over external ceremonies.
• Lingayats/Virashaivas (Statement 2 – Correct): This movement, led by Basavanna in the 12th-century Kannada region, challenged the prevailing social order. The Lingayats rejected the caste hierarchy and the notion of "pollution" associated with certain groups. Crucially, they questioned the theory of rebirth (reincarnation), believing instead that devotees would be united with Shiva upon death and not return to this world. They also advocated for the remarriage of widows and criticized the practice of animal sacrifice.

Both movements represented a significant shift toward personal devotion (Bhakti) and social equality, directly challenging the orthodox Brahmanical structures of their time.