Lingayatism, also known as Veerashaivism, is a distinct Shaivite tradition in India, established in the 12th century by the philosopher and social reformer Basavanna. It makes several departures from mainstream Hinduism and propounds monotheism through worship centered on Lingadeva(lang-kn:ಲಿಂಗದೇವ) (Lingadeva is GOD name in Lingayats). It also rejects the authority of the Vedas and the Caste system. The adherents of this faith are known as Lingayats (Kannada: ಲಿಂಗಾಯತರು, Telugu: లింగాయత, Tamil: இலிங்காயதம், Marathi: लिंगायत). The term is derived from Lingavantha in Kannada, meaning 'one who wears Ishtalinga or Istalinga (kan: ಇಷ್ಟಲಿಂಗ) on their body'.(Ishtalinga and Linga are different. Linga is one which is worshiped in the Temples (common worship). But Ishtalinga is worn on self body and worshiped individually. Istalinga is an oval shaped emblem symbolising Parasiva, the absolute reality (GOD). It is the object of worship in Lingayat Religion.
Read more about Lingayatism: Early History, Lingayat Theology, Anubhava Mantapa, Scriptures, Festivals, Lingayat Literature, Lingayat Demographics, Lingayata, Lingayats and Social Work