OPINION | Why Shudra and Sharana Seers Should Adopt Blue Robes to Champion Constitutional Equality

By B.S. Shivanna, MLC

Special to Bangalore Mail | Political Bureau

Since ancient times, seers and monks across India have adorned saffron robes as a symbol of renunciation, spiritual practice, and Sanatana culture. While those representing Sanatana traditions may continue to wear saffron without opposition, today’s democratic India functions under a higher guiding light: the Constitution of India, gifted to our nation by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

The Ambedkarite philosophy and constitutional ideals are represented globally by the color blue. In a modern democratic state, where equality, respect, and opportunity must reach every citizen, I make an urgent and heartfelt appeal: Seers, mathadhipathis, and monks of Shudra communities and the Sharana tradition should transition from saffron to blue robes.

Symbolizing Social Justice Over Ancient Orthodoxy

The color blue is far more than a visual choice—it signifies the vastness of the ocean and sky, representing inclusivity, self-respect, unity, social justice, and liberation.

When mathadhipathis deliver discourses (Aashirvachana), their words deeply influence large sections of society. If seers wear blue robes while speaking to the masses, their teachings will naturally resonate with constitutional values, scientific temper, and Ambedkarite principles. At a time when we must instill rationalist and egalitarian values in the public mind, this symbolic shift is essential.

Connecting Basava Philosophy to Ambedkarite Thought

We have not seen Lord Basavanna in person, but in our collective memory and literary tradition, he appears as a figure draped in white (Shwetavarna)—not saffron.

The foundation of our democratic spirit lies in the historical Anubhava Mantapa led by Allamaprabhu, which embraced individuals from all working-class backgrounds, including:

 Madara Chennaiah

 Dohara Kakkayya

 Madiwala Machideva

 Ambigara Chowdaiah

 Samagara Haralayya

 Molige Maraiah

Lingayat mathadhipathis who propagate the Vachana movement and Basavadi Sharana culture are custodians of this legacy of equality. By adopting blue robes, these seers will uphold the true reformist spirit of Basavanna and honor the democratic foundation laid by Dr. Ambedkar.

Modern Era Demands Rational and Scientific Leadership

We live in an age of Space Missions, Artificial Intelligence, and rapid technological advancements. India has successfully launched lunar missions and is actively preparing for crewed spaceflights (Man Missions). In such a progressive era, it is paradoxical for religious leaders representing backward and marginalized communities to propagate archaic, orthodox practices.

By shedding saffron in favor of blue, seers representing Dalit, OBC, and Sharana traditions will position themselves as champions of modern, scientific, and rational thought.

Constitutional Mandate: Equal Education and Global Competency

The Constitution remains the ultimate instrument to deliver social justice to the last person in society. To fulfill its promises, our institutions must adapt to current realities:

1. Nationalization of Education: Primary, secondary, and high school education must be nationalized. The quality of education available to the children of industrial magnates like Ambani, Tata, or Birla must also be accessible to underprivileged children in rural India.

2. Global Readiness for Gen-Z: Sanskrit, as part of ancient tradition, no longer serves as a primary language for livelihood. Today’s youth must master the English language to navigate global intelligence, AI advancements, and world markets.

A Call for a New Era of Social Awakening

Faith and religion must not be restricted to rituals; they should act as forces that sow brotherhood, humanism, and equity. The principles of Kayaka (work) and Dasoha (sharing) preached by Basavanna, the liberty, equality, and fraternity championed by Dr. Ambedkar, alongside the humanitarian ideals of Kuvempu, Kanakadasa, and Narayana Guru, serve as guiding lights for our society.

The Ashok Chakra on our national flag symbolizes dynamism, justice, and progress. Blue reflects these very ideals.

It is time for the seers of our indigenous, Shudra, and marginalized communities to lead this transformation. By adopting blue robes, our religious leaders will usher in a new era—one anchored in human dignity, social justice, and constitutional values.

The author is a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC), Karnataka.