Legends of Guru Basava
This collection of inspiring quotes reflects how Guru Basava’s timeless commitment to equality, compassion, and spiritual enlightenment continues to resonate across generations. From political leaders to scholars and spiritual seekers, these voices highlight Guru Basava’s influence on ethical living and community service.
Quotes
Mahatma Gandhi, Father of the Nation, India:
“It has not been possible for me to practise all the precepts of Guru Basava which he taught 800 years ago and which he also practised. I have adopted a few of them. I am yet a seeker in this aspect and not an accomplished one. Had Basava lived during our times, he would have been a saint worthy of worship. If you, his followers, practise his precepts, you could uplift not just Bharath, but the whole world.”
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Former President of India:
“To be successful in life, just follow one vachana or philosophy of Lord Basava. You will come out with flying colours in life, and you will meet the objective of taking birth on Earth.”
Kuvempu - Poet and philosophical visionary
ಕಾತಿಕದ ಕತ್ತಲಲಿ ಆಕಾತ ದಿವಸವಾಗಿ ನೀ ಬಂದೆ, ಬಟ್ಟೆಗಟ್ಟವರಿಂಗೊಂದು ದೋಂದು ದಿಕ್ಕಾಗಿ, ಎಂಟು ಶತಮಾನಗಳ ಹಿಂದೆ, ಆಗಿ ವಿದ್ಯೆಮನ್ತ ಓ ಆಧ್ಯಾತ್ಮ ಕ್ರಾಂತಿಕರ, ಶ್ರೀ ಬಸವೇಶ್ವರ!
ಜಾಣ ಪದವತಿಯ ಹೊಮ್ಮ ಕೂಪತ್ತ biddu, ವೈದಿಕರ ಯಜ್ಞಪ್ರಸ್ತಾಪಕೆ, ಬಲಿಪೈಡದ ದಲಿತ ಜೇಜ್ಮನಕ್ಕೊ ಮಣಿ ವಿಜಾರಕೆ, ಕಾಯವ ತಿವ್ರವತ್ತರ ಸಕಟೆಮ ಧರ್ಮಧಾಸಕೆ, ನಾನಿಕ್ಕೆ ಮಹಾತ್ಮನೆ, ನಿನಗೆ ನಮನವನೆ!
Dr. John Peter Schouten, Netherland Researcher:
“The inspiring charisma of Guru Basava brought about a religious uplift among a large host of followers from various backgrounds. Basava preached a practical form of spirituality characterized by personal devotion (Bhakti). He introduced a dynamic way of worship and mysticism that appealed particularly to the lower strata of Hindu society, who were generally barred from participating in dominant religious culture. The heritage of Basava is a living tradition that combines sincere spirituality with social awareness, a strength that continues to inspire even after eight centuries.”
Arthur Miles, French Economist:
“Whatever legend may say of Basava, the fact is clear that he was the first Indian free thinker. He might be called the Luther of India. Basava came upon the scene to replace caste and priestly authority with intelligence and free-thinking. He advocated for the abolition of caste, child marriage, and allowed widows to remarry. He preached that all men and women are equal by birth and championed the freedom of individual action.”
John Bercow, Hon. Speaker of the British Parliament:
“It is amazing and extraordinary that Basavanna (Guru Basava) professed, campaigned, and advocated genuine democracy, human rights, and gender equality way back in the 12th century—even before anyone in the United Kingdom had ever thought about it.”