Karnataka Bids Farewell: Former PM Deve Gowda's Wife Chennamma Dies at 89

Bengaluru is mourning the loss of Chennamma Deve Gowda, the beloved wife of former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 89. She succumbed to a massive cardiac arrest at a private hospital in Bengaluru, where she had been receiving treatment for a respiratory ailment since Wednesday night.

Her passing has drawn condolences from across the political spectrum. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, top Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, and Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar were among many who expressed their sorrow. In recognition of her stature as the wife of a former Prime Minister and mother of Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, CM Shivakumar promptly announced that she would be accorded full state honours.

Chennamma married H.D. Deve Gowda in 1954, and together they built a large family, including four sons and two daughters. Her sons H.D. Kumaraswamy and H.D. Revanna are also prominent figures in Indian politics. Despite her family's high-profile status, Chennamma largely chose to remain out of the public spotlight, preferring a quieter life. Her husband, Deve Gowda, often spoke publicly about her unwavering support and the significant sacrifices she made to manage their family while he navigated a demanding political career.

Her son, H.D. Kumaraswamy, affectionately remembered his mother as a woman of simple life and deep devotion. He spoke of her immense sacrifices for her family, describing her as a "light to lakhs of families" despite her humble origins. She had also endured significant health challenges over the years. Notably, Chennamma survived an acid attack in February 2001, an incident reportedly stemming from a family feud. Her life was a testament to resilience and quiet strength, standing as a pillar for one of Karnataka's most influential political families.

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