Daijiworld Media Network - Dharwad (SP)
Dharwad, Oct 20: "We have full knowledge about Lingayat community. There is no need for Pejawar Swamiji to come out with statements relating to this issue repeatedly," said Karnataka minister for mines and geology, Vinay Kulkarni.
Addressing the media persons after releasing the poster of the proposed Lingayat rally at Hubballi on November 5, Kulkarni scoffed at the statements he said were being issued by Pejawar Swamiji unnecessarily about Lingayat community and creating confusion through his act. "We do not need his guidance. Veerashaiva is a community within Lingayats and it is not separate. Veerashaiva and Lingayat can never mean the same thing. Let those who advocate the name, 'Veerashaiva', show this word if it is recorded in their school records," he challenged.
Pejawar Swamiji, Vinay Kulkarni
Nijagunananda Swamiji of Bailoor Nishkalamantapa, speaking on the occasion, said that he has respect for Pejawar Swamiji but insisted that the Swamiji happens to be the spiritual head of a particular ideology and not of the entire religion. "There are several factors and reasons behind seeking separate religion status for Lingayat. Therefore, we do not need Pejawar Swamiji's guidance. Pejawar Swamiji, who claims to be advocating the truth, should provide truth about Ligayat religion and not create confusion. He should actively support demand for creation of Lingayat religion. Alternatively, he has the option of not meddling with this issue," he asserted.