Which Hindu caste do Lingayats belong to?

Answer 1

Lingayatism is an independent religion and not a caste or sect within Hinduism. Lingatyatism rejects almost every aspect of Hinduism such as Caste System, temples, priestly class, the six impurities of Hinduism, and purification by rituals, karma, rebirth etc, and as such cannot be referred to as a caste within Hinduism.

It is a distinct Shaivite denomination within Hinduism in India. It makes several departures from mainstream Hinduism and propounds monotheism. It was established by Basavanna in the 12th Century, who was a social reformer and a great humanitarian. He introduced the system of wearing of Shivalinga upon one's body.