Belagavi
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced that the Karnataka government has submitted a proposal to the Union Government to declare the samadhi of Kittur Rani Chennamma as a National Monument. He also noted that a letter had been sent a year ago to rename Belagavi Airport after the warrior queen, though no action has been taken yet.
Speaking at the valedictory ceremony of the three-day Kittur Utsav at the historic Kittur Fort, Siddaramaiah paid glowing tributes to Chennamma, who led an armed rebellion against the British on October 23, 1824, long before Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi.
“Chennamma, Sangolli Rayanna, and Amatur Balappa are timeless symbols of courage and self-respect. Instead of surrendering to the British, they chose to fight. Chennamma’s victory against Thackeray remains a proud chapter in India’s freedom struggle,” the CM said.
Reflecting on historical betrayals, he added, “It was our own people who revealed Sangolli Rayanna’s whereabouts to the British. The policy of division existed then and still continues today.” He drew parallels with Tipu Sultan, emphasizing that bravery and sacrifice often go unacknowledged. Siddaramaiah urged people to rise above caste and religion, warning against divisive forces.
Voices of appreciation at the event included Hunagunda MLA Vijayanand Kashappanavar, who commended Siddaramaiah for officially celebrating Chennamma Jayanti since 2017. MLA Babasaheb Patil called for greater funding to restore Kittur’s historic sites, develop tourism, and revive the Malaprabha Cooperative Sugar Factory.
Prof. C. M. Tyagaraj, Vice-Chancellor of Rani Chennamma University, emphasized that the festival must inspire youth with patriotism and courage, while writer Vinaya Vakkund highlighted the 200-year struggle as a symbol of resistance. Madivala Rajayogindra Swamiji blessed the initiative, calling for Chennamma’s fort to receive National Monument status.
Several dignitaries attended the ceremony, including Ministers Satish Jarkiholi, Ashok Pattan, Salim Ahmed, Mahantesh Koujalagi, MLAs N. H. Konareddy, Asif (Raju) Seth, Vishwas Vaidya, MLC Channaraj Hattiholi, and senior officials.
