Mysuru: Underlining the role of 12th century Shivasharanas in the social transformation of society, BJP leader Raghu Kautilya appealed the government to hold Jayantis of all Basavadi Sharanas on Basava Jayanti Day.

He was speaking after inaugurating Veera Madiwala Machidevara Jayanthotsava organised by Veera Madiwala Sangha at the Sangha office on Manasa road in Ittigegud here this morning.

Pointing out that Madiwala Machideva, a 12th century saint, was  heroic and a loyal sharana, who valiantly fought against King Bijjala’s army to protect manuscripts of vachanas written by the Sharanas, Raghu Kautilya said although the kayaka of Machideva was to wash clothes he advocated the importance of ishtalinga.

Noting that casteism was very much alive in the society despite the advances made in science and technology, he said that the vachanas of Basavadi Sharanas was relevant even today.

Regretting that Madiwalas are losing out their kayaka with the advent of science and technology, he urged the government to set aside funds for Madiwala community upliftment and to provide education and jobs to the community which has long been ignored.

Rajyotsava awardee Shyamasundar and other achievers from the community were feted.

Earlier, Veeragase and a host of other cultural troupes presented a performance.

Kannada and Culture Assistant Director H. Channappa, former Mayor Ayub Khan, Madiwala Sangha office-bearers Bhyrappa Kurubarahalli, Jogappa, M. Puttamahadev and Ramaswamy were present.