An offshoot

One of the leading writers and journalists in Karnataka, Ramjan Darga, (part of facilitation team and the translator of the Charter of Human Responsibilities in Kannada) has been so inspired to start writing a book on the great Indian reformist Basavanna of the 12th century.

Basavanna stood for equality for all and dreamt of a casteless society. He criticized all forms of social injustice, condemned vehemently several superstitions and animal sacrifice, and taught that the path of devotion was the best way for self-realization. He advocated equal opportunity for women with men in all fields: social, religious, and economic. These reforms attracted devotees from the lower strata of society as well as highly placed and educated people. Kayakave Kailasa (Work is worship) became the mantra. Their Vachanas (which can be loosely termed, couplets), born out of their respective vocations, are full of imagery and liveliness. Ramjan Darga has taken the principles of the Charter and is relating them to this great thinker and philosopher.
The book will be published early next year by the University of Gulbarga. He has proposed to organise a workshop for the academicians of the university on the principles and responsibilities of the Charter in early January.