New Delhi: A great day for Kannadigas, as for the first time, Basava Jayanthi was celebrated at the national-level. On the occasion of 883rd birth anniversary of 12th-century social reformer Basaveshwara, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched digital version of ‘vachana’ in 23 Indian languages during the inauguration of International Basava Convention in Delhi on Saturday.

While opening his speech with ‘Om Sri Basava Lingaaya Namaha’, PM Modi termed Anubhava Mantapa, a platform or new spiritual institution formed by Basavanna on democratic foundation for people from all walks of life to present their thoughts as first parliament of India.

While hailing the efforts of Basavanna to propagate women’s empowerment centuries ago, Modi took up the issue of Triple Talaq and called upon the Muslim reformer and thinkers to come forward to end the practice.

He also congratulated Arvind Jatti, Basava Samithi convener, for completing the work initiated by his father, former Vice President, BD Jatti. Union Ministers Sadanada Gowda, Ananth Kumar and former karnataka chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa were present in the function.