Bhakti movement

LAKKUNDI AS ACENTRE OF REIGIOUS PLURALISM & TEMPLE ARCHITECTURE IN MEDIEVA DECCAN

Lakkundi in Karnataka is an important medieval heritage town known for its rich cultural, religious, and architectural legacy. Flourishing under the Western Chalukyas and Hoysalas, it became famous as the “village of a hundred temples and wells.” The site reflects religious pluralism, with strong associations with Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Jainism, and the Virashaiva Bhakti movement.

Its beautifully carved temples and stepwells, built in the distinctive Kalyana Chalukya style, highlight both artistic excellence and sacred utility. Recent archaeological excavations, including evidence of much earlier habitation, have strengthened efforts to include Lakkundi in UNESCO’s World Heritage tentative list, underscoring its enduring historical significance.

SRIMANTA SANKARDEVA - PIONEER OF ASSAMESE NEO - VAISHNAVISM

Srimanta Sankardeva was a 15th–16th century saint, reformer, poet, and cultural icon from Assam who laid the foundations of Neo-Vaishnavism and Ekasarana Dharma, emphasising devotion to a single God, ethical living, and social equality over ritualism and caste hierarchy. He pioneered a powerful cultural renaissance through Borgeet, Bhaona, Ankia Naat, Namghar, and Sattras, which became enduring institutions of Assamese society. His movement promoted egalitarianism, women’s participation, and community worship, reshaping Assam’s religious and cultural identity. Sankardeva’s legacy continues to influence literature, music, theatre, and social reform across the region, making him one of the most transformative spiritual leaders in Indian history.