Vachana is a form of rhythmic, free-verse poetry that originated in the 12th century in the region of Karnataka, India. It is primarily associated with the Lingayat movement and was used by poets known as Vachanakars to express spiritual ideas and social reform. The verses are characterized by their simplicity and directness, making them accessible to the common people. The themes of Vachana often revolve around devotion to Shiva, the rejection of ritualism, and the importance of personal experience in spirituality. Notable figures in this tradition include Basava, Akka Mahadevi, and Allama Prabhu, who used Vachanas to challenge societal norms and promote equality.