Rani Chennamma Remembered as Pioneer of 1824 Armed Revolt

New Delhi, October 23: The birth anniversary of Rani Chennamma, the ruler of Karnataka's historic Kittur princely state, drew tributes from several prominent leaders. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra and Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka all paid their respects.

Kharge Calls Her a First Freedom Fighter

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge posted a tribute on X, calling Rani Chennamma an exceptional patriot and a fearless woman. He described her as the first freedom fighter to fight against the British and said he respectfully saluted her on her birth anniversary.

Shivakumar Highlights Her Defiance

In a message on social media, Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar described Chennamma as a symbol of Kannada identity. He said she proved to the world that women are strong, not weak. He pointed to her decision to raise her sword against British atrocities as a point of pride for the state.

He said her refusal to accept unjust British laws and her willingness to lay down her life for her motherland would remain a constant source of inspiration for all Kannada speakers. He also extended heartfelt greetings to the people of the region.

Vijayendra Recalls Battlefield Valour

B.Y. Vijayendra, President of the Karnataka BJP, offered his salutations to the brave queen of Kittur. He said she sounded the bugle of armed revolt against the British and displayed unmatched courage on the battlefield while defending the honour of her motherland.

He added that her story of valour, sacrifice and martyrdom continues to keep alive the spirit of nationalism in every Indian.

Ashoka Honours a Heroine of Kannada Land

R. Ashoka, who serves as Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, described Chennamma as a brave queen who fought the British and remained a heroine of the Kannada land. He wished people on her birth anniversary and said her bravery would never be forgotten.

The Revolt of 1824

Historians recall that in 1824 Rani Chennamma launched the first armed revolt against the oppressive rule of the British East India Company and its 'Doctrine of Lapse' policy. Her unmatched courage, unwavering self-respect and supreme sacrifice continue to inspire generations.