Virasaivism

Virasaivism, also known as Lingayatism, is a spiritual tradition that originated in India around the 12th century. It emphasizes devotion to Lord Shiva and promotes the idea that spiritual awakening can be achieved through personal devotion, ethical living, and direct experience of the divine, without reliance on priests or rituals. Followers often wear a small lingam emblem, symbolizing Shiva, as a mark of their faith. Virasaivism advocates for social equality, rejecting caste distinctions and promoting community service. It blends spiritual practices with a sense of social responsibility, inspiring a way of life rooted in devotion, integrity, and universal compassion.