The correct option is Basavanna.
Explanation
The Virashaiva or Lingayat movement emerged in Karnataka during the mid-12th century as a radical strand of the Bhakti movement. It challenged the caste system and Brahmanical rituals, emphasizing personal devotion to Shiva.
Historical Analysis:
- Basavanna: He was a 12th-century philosopher, statesman, and social reformer. He served as a minister (specifically the treasurer or Chief Minister) in the court of the Kalachuri king Bijjala II (who reigned from approximately 1130 to 1167 CE). Basavanna used his political influence and literary contributions (Vachanas) to lead the Virashaiva movement and established the Anubhava Mantapa (Hall of Spiritual Experience).
- Allama Prabhu: A contemporary of Basavanna and a mystic saint who presided over the proceedings of the Anubhava Mantapa. He was a spiritual guide rather than a court minister.
- Akka Mahadevi: A prominent female poet-saint of the movement, known for her intense devotion and Vachana literature. She renounced worldly life and was not a minister.
- Ramanuja: A Vaishnava theologian and proponent of the Vishishtadvaita philosophy (1017-1137 CE). He was associated with the Chola and Hoysala periods, not the Kalachuri court or the Virashaiva movement.
Key Takeaway: Basavanna was the key leader of the Virashaiva movement in Karnataka and served as a minister under the Kalachuri ruler Bijjala II, distinguishing him from other purely ascetic saints of the era.