IPA Pronunciation

/ˈbɑː.sə.vɑː/

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Basava is a Sanskrit-derived name meaning 'bull,' symbolizing strength, fertility, and steadfastness. It is closely associated with Basavanna, a 12th-century philosopher and social reformer from Karnataka, India, who founded the Lingayat tradition. The name reflects both physical power and spiritual depth, rooted in Indian religious and cultural history.

Cultural Significance of Basava

The name Basava holds deep cultural and religious significance in South India, especially Karnataka. It is immortalized by Basavanna, a revered 12th-century saint and social reformer who rejected caste discrimination and promoted egalitarian spiritual practices in the Lingayat faith. Basava symbolizes strength, righteousness, and devotion, making it a timeless choice for families valuing spirituality and social justice.

Basava Name Popularity in 2025

Today, Basava remains a popular given name in Karnataka and among Lingayat communities worldwide. It is embraced by parents who seek a name with strong cultural roots and spiritual resonance. While not widespread globally, Basava carries a dignified presence and is often chosen to honor the legacy of Basavanna or to convey strength and moral integrity in modern contexts.

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Popular Nicknames10

BasuBasuvaBasVasuBasiBavaSavaBasu-BoyBassyBasster
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International Variations10

BasavBasavanBasavannaBasavaiahBasavappaBasavarajBasaveshwarBasavannaiahBasavanna RaoBasavanna Gowda

Similar Names You Might Love8

Name Energy & Essence

The name Basava carries the essence of “Bull; symbol of strength and spirituality” from Sanskrit / Indian tradition. Names beginning with "B" often embody qualities of stability, nurturing, and groundedness.

Symbolism

Cultural Significance

The name Basava holds deep cultural and religious significance in South India, especially Karnataka. It is immortalized by Basavanna, a revered 12th-century saint and social reformer who rejected caste discrimination and promoted egalitarian spiritual practices in the Lingayat faith. Basava symbolizes strength, righteousness, and devotion, making it a timeless choice for families valuing spirituality and social justice.

Basavanna

12th-century philosopher, poet, and social reformer who founded the Lingayat sect in Karnataka, India, advocating social equality and devotion.

Basaveshwara

Another name for Basavanna, emphasizing his role as a lord or teacher, instrumental in shaping the Bhakti movement in South India.

Basavappa Desai

A noted Indian freedom fighter and social leader from Karnataka, known for his contributions to rural development and education.

Basava

🌐Spanish

Basava

🌐French

Basava

🌐German

Basava

🌐Italian

バサヴァ

🌐Japanese

巴萨瓦

🌐Chinese

باسافا

🌐Arabic

Fun Fact About Basava

Basava means 'bull,' an animal revered in Indian culture for its strength and sacredness, often associated with the god Shiva's mount, Nandi.

Personality Traits for Basava

Individuals named Basava are often perceived as strong-willed, dependable, and principled. The name suggests a grounded personality with deep spiritual values, a natural inclination toward leadership, and a commitment to justice and equality. Basavas are thought to be nurturing yet firm, compassionate but resolute in their beliefs and actions.

What does the name Basava mean?

Basava is a Sanskrit / Indian name meaning “Bull; symbol of strength and spirituality”. Basava is a Sanskrit-derived name meaning 'bull,' symbolizing strength, fertility, and steadfastness. It is closely associated with Basavanna, a 12th-century philosopher and social reformer from Karnataka, India, who founded the Lingayat tradition. The name reflects both physical power and spiritual depth, rooted in Indian religious and cultural history.

How do you pronounce Basava?

Basava is pronounced (IPA: /ˈbɑː.sə.vɑː/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.

What are nicknames for Basava?

Popular nicknames for Basava include: Basu, Basuva, Bas, Vasu, Basi, Bava, Sava, Basu-Boy, Bassy, Basster.

Who are famous people named Basava?

Famous people named Basava include: , , , Basava Premanand, Basavaraj Bommai.