Ambigara Chowdaiya

From Bharatpedia, an open encyclopedia



Nijasharana Shri Ambigara Chowdaiya (also spelled Caudayya) was a saint, poet and social critic in 12th century India. He belong to Koli[1] community and was a ferryman or boatman who went to Kalyan, joined the Virasaiva movement there and followed Lingayatism. Influenced by Basava, his somewhat crude writings were critical of the higher castes.[2] He has been described by K. A. Paniker as the angriest of the poets in the vachana movement.[3] Revered as a saint because of his 274 inspiring Pravachans, he also challenged those who harassed women and those he considered to be religious charlatans.[citation needed] He taught that god certainly dwells in the heart of one who is pure in thoughts, words and deed.[4]

A cave is named after Chowdaiya on the outskirts of Basavakalyan in Karnataka[citation needed] and that state's Department of Kannada and Culture assists in the annual celebrations of his jayanti.[5]

References[edit]

  1. "Rajeev to head Thanda Development Corporation". Deccan Herald. 16 October 2019. Retrieved 14 March 2021.
  2. Schouten, Jan Peter (1995). Revolution of the Mystics: On the Social Aspects of Vīraśaivism. Motilal Banarsidass Publishe. pp. 45–47. ISBN 9788120812383.
  3. Paniker, K. Ayyappa (1997). Medieval Indian Literature: Surveys and selections. Sahitya Akademi. pp. 182–183. ISBN 9788126003655.
  4. Chekki, Danesh A. (1997). Religion and Social System of the Vīraśaiva Community. Greenwood Publishing Group. p. 33. ISBN 9780313302510.
  5. "Procession marks Ambigara Chowdaiah Jayanti celebration in city". Star of Mysore. 6 February 2018. Retrieved 4 April 2019.