A 22-year-old seer, Nijalinga Swamy, resigned from a newly established Lingayat mutt in Chamarajanagar, Karnataka, after villagers objected to his past Muslim identity. The issue emerged when his Aadhaar card, seen by an employee, revealed his original name — Mohammed Nisar — and old photos, including one with a skullcap and another holding a beer bottle.
Originally from Yadgir, he embraced Lingayatism at 17, drawn to the teachings of 12th-century reformer Basavanna. Despite initial resistance from his family, he pursued his spiritual path, spreading vachanas (devotional poems) across Karnataka. He was appointed head of Gurumalleshwara Shakha Mutt in Gundlupet taluka just six weeks ago.
Swamy explained that his conversion was heartfelt, not superficial. “I never hid my devotion to Basavanna. After deeksha, I gave up all unholy acts. The old photos are from before my spiritual journey,” he clarified. However, the controversy forced his resignation.
Support has since emerged from several Lingayat leaders, and he has found refuge in a Rane Bennur mutt in Haveri. “I’ve renounced my past for Basavanna’s ideals. False claims won’t deter me. I will continue to spread his message,” he affirmed.
This case reflects a broader spiritual trend — some Muslims in Karnataka have embraced Lingayat philosophy, valuing its message of equality and social justice. Notably, in 2020, Diwan Sharief Mulla became the fourth Muslim to head a Lingayat mutt in 300 years.