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Person Basavanna
Asked 4 times across 2 UPSC exams over 12 years (2014–2026), peaking in 2014.
Key insights
- Most tested in CDS — 3 of 4 PYQs
- Most asked in 2014
- Recurs across 4 years (2014–2026)
How it travelled across exams
First appearance in each exam — the same idea, reframed.
CDS 2014 → GEO 2025
How the concept evolved
Rising — more than half its appearances (3 of 4) are since 2016.
Related concepts
Ideas UPSC tests alongside this one — keep exploring.
Sample questions
You've seen the pattern — here are a few of the actual PYQs.
CDS2026
The twelfth century witnessed the emergence of a new movement in Karnataka, led by Basavanna (1106-68 CE) who was a minister in the court of a Kalachuri ruler. His followers were known as :
- A Virashaivas ✓
- B Pushtimargis
- C Avadhoots
- D Nathpanthis
✓ Correct answer: (A)
History › Medieval India
GEO2025
Consider the following statements about the Virashaiva Movement
- The Virashaiva Movement was led by Basavanna
- Virashaivas worshipped Shiva in his manifestation as a Linga
- Vachanas, composed in Kannada, are the main compositions for understanding the Virashaiva tradition
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A 1 and 2 only
- B 1 and 3 only
- C 2 only
- D 1, 2 and 3 ✓
✓ Correct answer: (D)
Art & Culture › Religion & Philosophy
CDS2022
Who among the following was the founder of the Virashaiva Movement in Karnataka ?
- A Basavanna ✓
- B Appar
- C Sambandar
- D Sundarar
✓ Correct answer: (A)
Art & Culture › Religion & Philosophy
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