The Karnataka government on Sunday accorded full State Honours to the late Chennamma, wife of former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda, during her last rites in Bengaluru. Chennamma passed away due to illness on July 18. In a formal declaration of respect, a directive was issued that her funeral would take place with all State Honours. Condolences were extended to her family at this time of grief.
The leaders of various ideologies came out in praise of this lady, who was the source of strength for the Gowda family during her husband's long political career. Speaking about his grief, senior Congress leader M Veerappa Moily, the former chief minister of Karnataka, said that her demise was a great loss not only for him but for the whole family.
BJP MP K Sudhakar also extended his condolences, highlighting how Chennamma managed the household and ensured their children received a good education while Deve Gowda devoted his time to public service. Karnataka Minister Ramalinga Reddy described her as a role model for others, while Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara and state Home Minister Priyank Kharge visited the family residence to pay their final respects.
Earlier, Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy paid an emotional tribute to his mother, recalling her simplicity and the sacrifices that helped his father reach the country’s highest office. He noted that even when his father became the Prime Minister, his mother maintained a very simple life. He explained that she had been suffering from health problems for the past year and, despite the best efforts of doctors after her condition worsened, she passed away.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke directly to HD Deve Gowda to convey his sympathies, later posting that he was deeply pained by the news and praising Chennamma for her humility and dedication to serving society. "The quiet strength of the Gowda family," said Congress party president Mallikarjun Kharge, adding that former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah recalled her as an epitome of bravery who always stood by her husband’s side in all his endeavours. After being put on display at Bengaluru, her mortal body was then taken back to her native village for the funeral on Monday.
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