Mysuru: Observing that 12th century Vachanas have become part of Veerashaiva religious rituals, KSGH Music and Performing Arts University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Sarvamangala Shankar said that Sharana Movement had made a lasting impact on the society.

She was speaking after inaugurating the cultural events on the last day of the three-day Basava Jayanti celebrations jointly organised by the District Administration, Akhila Bharatha Veerashaiva Mahasabha, Veerashaiva Associations and Basava Balagagala Okkuta, at Kalamandira here recently.

Pointing out that Swara Vachana was an integral part of the 12th century Vachanas, she said that the great poetess Akkamahadevi was the outcome of the ‘Sharana Movement.’

Noting that Vachanas aimed at liberating the lower strata of the society, she said that overall it can be said that Sharana Vachana Sahitya has contributed much to Indian Culture as well.

MLA Dr. Geetha Mahadevaprasad, in her address, said it was ‘Sharana Movement’ which led to many religious, social and political revolution of sorts in the country.

Stating that untouchability was very much prevalent in the 12th century, with temple doors closed to Dalits and other oppressed sections of the society, she said that Basavanna showed ‘Bhakti Marga’ to these oppressed sections through his Vachanas.

Pointing out that Basavanna was always for contributing a part of the wealth earned through occupation to the welfare of the society, she stressed on the need for incorporating Vachanas in our daily life.

The cultural events featured Karaga Nrutya, Veeragase, etc. by women members of Basava Balagas and their children and dance-drama by specially-abled children among others.