CDS 2026 (I) General Knowledge, question 60

Topic: History

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Q60

The twelfth century witnessed the emergence of a new movement in Karnataka, led by Basavanna (1106-68 CE) who was a minister in the court of a Kalachuri ruler. His followers were known as :

  1. (a) VirashaivasCorrect answer
  2. (b) Pushtimargis
  3. (c) Avadhoots
  4. (d) Nathpanthis

Solution.

Answer: (a) Virashaivas

  1. Basavanna’s followers are associated with the Virashaiva or Lingayat movement in Karnataka.
  2. The identifying devotional symbol is the linga; Pushtimarg belongs to a different religious tradition.