Basavaraju

Basavaraju is a South Indian name, predominantly found in the states of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, India. It is a given name for males. The name has roots in Hinduism and is associated with Lord Basaveshwara (also known as Basava), a 12th-century philosopher, social reformer, and Lingayat saint. The suffix "Raju" is a common Telugu honorific suffix and also used as a surname, signifying royalty or leadership. Thus, Basavaraju can be interpreted as "one connected to or belonging to Basava" or "Basava the ruler." It is often used by members of the Lingayat community. The name signifies devotion to Lord Basaveshwara and adherence to his philosophical principles, which emphasize social justice, equality, and devotion to Shiva.