Panchamsali Lingayats

Panchamasali Lingayats
ಪಂಚಮಸಾಲಿ ಲಿಂಗಾಯತರು
Total population
90 Lakhs
Regions with significant populations
Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh
Languages
Kannada, Marathi, Telugu
Religion
Hinduism
Related ethnic groups
Lingayats

Panchamasali Lingayats (Kannada: ಪಂಚಮಸಾಲಿ ಲಿಂಗಾಯತರು) are a prominent agricultural community in Karnataka, traditionally associated with farming. one of the largest sub-sects of the Lingayat community in southern India. They form a significant part of the Lingayat tradition that emerged in the 12th century under the social reformer Basavanna. Traditionally, the Panchamasali Lingayats are the largest sub-sect of the Lingayat community, making up around 60–70% of its population.

They are predominantly concentrated in northern and central Karnataka and have historically played a significant role in the social and political landscape of the state.