Lingayat matrimony is the union of Lingayat bride and groom in a marriage. Lingayat is caste based out of Karnataka state of India. Lingayats are a dominant caste and acquired "Gowda" title by the virtue of their occupation, which means village leader. They are found predominantly in Central and South Karnataka, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. This article explores origins of Lingayats, community culture, marriage rituals and sites for Lingayat matrimony.
Lingayat Origin:
Lingayats constitute 17% of the total population of Karnataka making them the largest single community in the state. Lingayats follow Lingayathism founded by Basava in 12th century, a Brahmin who declined the authority of Vedas and expressed disbelief against caste system. They worship Lord Shiva. Basava said that all people are created by Shiva and preached against dividing people on the basis of their birth such as Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vysya, Sudra and untouchable. This idea didn't go well with Hindu community who practiced Vedas. Guru Basava also asked people to donate part of their earnings to poor/down trodden. This is called Daasooha. After Basava, his followers spread this theology. Saints like Allama Prabhu, Akka Mahadevi, Channabasavanna also made significant efforts for the growth of Lingayathism.
Lingayats practice Panchacharas, which are the code of conduct established by Basava. They have 8 ornaments which they wear to protect them from distractions and worldly attachments. These are called Ashtavaranas namely Guru, Linga, Jangama, Padodaka, Prasada, Vibhuti, Rudraksha, Mantra. Lingayats are purely vegetarians. They don't consume alcohol and is strictly prohibited.
They bury the dead unlike other Hindu castes which cremate the body. Some of the Lingayat festivals include Siddharameshawar Jayanthi, Allama Prabhu Jayanthi, Basava Jayanthi, Maha Shiva Ratri, Akkamahadevi Jayanthi, Basava Jayanthi, Neelamma Shashti, Channabasavanna Jayanthi. Prominent king rulers are Kittur Chennamma, Rudrama Devi, Bukka Raya I&II and Devaraya. From literature poets like Harihara, Sarvajna, Palkuri Somanatha belonged to Lingayathism. Lingayats are politically very influential and held many top positions. Basappa Danappa served as president of India. Nijalingappa served as the congress president of India. Some other well-known leaders are Shivraj Patil, Yedyurappa. Baba Kalyani of Bharat Forge is an entrepreneur of this clan. Famous movie artists like Manjula and Prabhu Deva are Lingayats.
Lingayats practice Panchacharas, which are the code of conduct established by Basava. They have 8 ornaments which they wear to protect them from distractions and worldly attachments. These are called Ashtavaranas namely Guru, Linga, Jangama, Padodaka, Prasada, Vibhuti, Rudraksha, Mantra. Lingayats are purely vegetarians. They don't consume alcohol and is strictly prohibited.
They bury the dead unlike other Hindu castes which cremate the body. Some of the Lingayat festivals include Siddharameshawar Jayanthi, Allama Prabhu Jayanthi, Basava Jayanthi, Maha Shiva Ratri, Akkamahadevi Jayanthi, Basava Jayanthi, Neelamma Shashti, Channabasavanna Jayanthi. Prominent king rulers are Kittur Chennamma, Rudrama Devi, Bukka Raya I&II and Devaraya. From literature poets like Harihara, Sarvajna, Palkuri Somanatha belonged to Lingayathism. Lingayats are politically very influential and held many top positions. Basappa Danappa served as president of India. Nijalingappa served as the congress president of India. Some other well-known leaders are Shivraj Patil, Yedyurappa. Baba Kalyani of Bharat Forge is an entrepreneur of this clan. Famous movie artists like Manjula and Prabhu Deva are Lingayats.
Lingayat Marriage Rituals:
Lingayats have four day wedding rituals. Videghalne is celebrated on the first day which commences the marriage and poles are erected for the marriage venue. On the second day, Ganesh pooja is performed who is the son of Lord Shiva. This is called Gugul ceremony. On the third day, actual marriage happens. Groom ties a black bead thread around the neck of bride when the priests recite verses. Guests throw the paddy grains mixed with Turmeric powder blessing the bride and groom. This is also called Devaka ceremony. Saptapadi is a ritual in bride and groom take 7 rounds walk around the fire. Divorce is not encouraged in Lingayat families as it is against the core principles of Lingayatism.
While you search for your life partner on matrimonial sites, just be aware of the fake profiles. Good luck for your marriage.
Lingayat Matrimony for Brides:
Linagyat families look for marriage alliances from the same community. Lingayat brides wear simple white saree for the marriage. They get decorated with Sindhur, Vermillon and Bangles beautifully. Finding right match for Lingayat bride is not difficult as Lingayat community is a big one. Matrimonial sites are also an option for brides of this community.Lingayat Matrimony for Grooms:
Lingayat grooms search for brides through family friends and relatives. They believe in an arranged marriage system. Some Lingayat young boys also register on Lingayat matrimony sites to find their dream life partner. Grooms wear cloth turban, dhowti for the marriage.
Veerashaiva Lingayat Matrimonial Sites:
Matrimony sites like Matchfinder.in and lingayatmatrimony.com are popular match making websites. Matchfinder has joined many brides and grooms through its Veerashaiva Lingayat matrimony services. They provide free membership offers as a startup-offer.While you search for your life partner on matrimonial sites, just be aware of the fake profiles. Good luck for your marriage.
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