Mysore, August 23, 2013: The essence of the vachanas of Akka Mahadevi, a 12th century poet and a prominent figure of the Veerashaiva Bhakti movement, should serve as a guide to find solutions to the problems faced by women in contemporary society, K. Marulasiddappa, scholar, has said.

He was addressing a gathering after inaugurating the Akka Mahadevi Chair at the Karnataka State Open University (KSOU), coinciding with a one-day State-level seminar here on Thursday.

Eulogising Akka Mahadevi as a symbol of human freedom and dignity, he said she had carved out a niche for herself in a male-dominated society through the elements of spiritualism, wisdom and literary excellence.

In fact, the 12th century ‘Sharana Chalavali’ (movement) had provided a perfect platform for many women in society to stand on a par with men in terms of literary achievements and wisdom, Dr. Marulasiddappa said.

Terming Akka Mahadevi a spiritual leader who foresaw a society without boundaries, Dr. Marulasiddappa said the ideals she propagated were relevant even in the 21st century. “Akka Mahadevi was not just a renowned vachanakarti but an icon of the women’s movement.”

The Chair should not limit itself to propagating the ideals of Akka Mahadevi, but be responsive to the needs of women in tune with modern developments, Dr. Marulasiddappa said.

The Chair should help in taking forward a culture that had vastly influenced 12th century society.

Vice Chancellor of the KSOU M.G. Krishnan presided over the function. Critic and poet S.G. Siddaramaiah and O.L. Nagabhushan Swamy, who gave the main speech, were present. Director of the Akka Mahadevi Chair, KSOU, Kavitha Rai gave an account of the Chair and the activities to be taken up next.

Source: The Hindu, August 23, 2013