Relevance of Basavanna in Contemporary Society

A Study of Girish Karnad’s Tale-Danda

Abstract

In this contemporary world mired with religious and ethnic divisibility, we are constantly aware of a sense of conflict, uncertainty that percolate in our social structure; a condition which is aggravated by hegemonic divisions, non-inclusive policies, religious polarization and hate politics which often culminate into violence and carnage. In such a social context the philosophical visions of Basavanna seem to be compelling and relevant, his ideology sustains as a hope to establish our faith in humanity. In his play Talé-Danda, Girish Karnad brings out the essential themes that are critically engaged with Basavanna’s life and philosophy to enlighten us more on human values which perhaps are more valuable than pursuing any spiritual path. My paper is an attempt to capture the contemporaneity of Basavanna’s philosophy and ethical ideas through a detailed analysis of Karnad’s text Talé-Danda in order to conceptualize a world that looks beyond narrow sectarianism and identity politics.