Dewan Shareif Mullah said no one has opposed his appointment and added that everyone has supported him for conducting welfare activities and poojas. (Photo: ANI)

A 33-year-old Muslim man is all set to become a seer at the Murugharajendra Mutt in north Karnataka's Gadag district. Dewan Shareif Mullah, 33, was appointed as the next pontiff by Murugarajendra Koraneswara Swami of the mutt, located in Astuti village.

"It does not matter what caste you belong to. If God appears to you for a path of goodwill and sacrifice, you will do it regardless of the manmade restrictions of birth and caste," said Murugarajendra Koraneswara Swami.

Shareif said he will "walk on the path of dharma" and propagate the message of "love and sacrifice" as he gears up to assume role of the main priest at the mutt from February 26.

"They've put the sacred thread and given me the responsibility. They've given me the 'Ishta-linga' and this honour. I have done the 'Ishta-linga dharan'. I'll walk on the path of dharma. Love and sacrifice is the message given to me...that is what I want to propagate" Shareif said.

A New18 report suggested that Shareif's parents were staunch devotees of 12th century Ligayat saint Basavanna and three years ago, his father donated two acres of land in Astuti to build a mutt dedicated to teaching Basava philosophy.

The report further noted that Diwan Shareif has been learning the principles of Lingayat religion and Basava's teachings for the past three years and also took 'deeksha' last year in November.

While Lingayat seers are usually unmarried, Diwan Shareif is a married man with a family. His supporters are of the view that this will set a new precedent and help in preserving the ideals of Basava tatva. Diwan said that he enjoys the support of all Astuti villagers as well as other people who believe in Basava's teachings.

Shareif also added that no one has opposed his appointment yet and added that everyone has backed him for conducting welfare activities and poojas. Going forward, he hopes to keep working for the welfare of people and preach about love.