Concept:Virashaivism is a Shaiva devotional movement founded by Basavanna in 12th-century Karnataka.
Explanation:Basavanna was a philosopher, statesman, Kannada poet, and social reformer during the Kalachuri king Bijjala I's reign.
He founded Virashaivism, meaning "ardent, heroic worshippers of Shiva."
His followers were known as Sharanas, Shivasharanas, or Lingavantas.
They are called Lingayats because they constantly wear a small Shiva Linga in a pendant around the neck.
This movement rejected temple worship and rituals led by Brahmins, favoring direct personal worship of Shiva.
Basavanna used his poetry, known as Vachanas, to spread social awareness.
He opposed gender and social discrimination, superstitions, and meaningless rituals.
He also created the Anubhava Mantapa, a hall where men and women from all backgrounds could openly discuss spiritual and worldly questions.
Ramanuja preached Vishishtadvaita, while Tukaram and Gyaneshwar were Marathi bhakti saints; none founded Virashaivism.
Thus, Basavanna is the correct answer.
Answer: Option B: Basavanna.