In an extraordinary tribute, the quiet village of Belludi in Karnataka's Davanagere district has immortalised a local legend—not a human, but a champion ram named Belludi Kaali. The community, more used to honouring people, has constructed a stunning stone memorial worth Rs 9 lakh along the Shivamogga road to celebrate the animal's unmatched legacy in ram-fighting arenas.
A Champion's Legacy Etched in Stone
The memorial, a first-of-its-kind in the region, is a testament to the ram's fame that spread beyond Karnataka to neighbouring states like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Owners and brothers Raghavendra DK and Mohan DK, along with their team, spearheaded the construction. Daily prayers are already being conducted at the site, which features intricate carvings of elephants, four corner pillars adorned with stone chains, and a central carved statue of Kaali himself.
The ram's story is one of unexpected stardom. Purchased at just 10 months old and trained for combat, Belludi Kaali dominated numerous ram-fighting competitions, amassing multiple awards and a massive fan following. His reputation was so formidable that other ram owners often withdrew their animals from events where Kaali was participating, anticipating certain defeat.
Final Farewell and Grand Inauguration
The community's deep connection with Kaali was profoundly evident following his untimely death on November 25, 2024. A large crowd gathered to pay their last respects, and the ram was buried with full Hindu rituals typically reserved for humans. Fans from across South India visited to mourn the loss of the champion.
To formally honour his memory, the memorial will be inaugurated on January 25 by Sri Niranjananandapuri Swami, the head of the Kanaka Guru Peetha. A free blood donation camp has been organised to mark the occasion. Co-owner Raghavendra DK revealed that the total project cost, including an estimated Rs 3 lakh for the inauguration event, is expected to reach Rs 12 lakh.
A Ram That Touched Hearts
The owners shared heartfelt anecdotes about Kaali's life and impact. "Kaali was raised like a pet in our family. No one imagined he would perform so spectacularly," said co-owner Mohan DK. "He became the only ram in the state with such widespread fame. Losing him was deeply painful."
Raghavendra highlighted the extraordinary fan devotion: "People have even got tattoos of Kaali's name." The memorial statue was crafted by a sculptor named Shakti from Tamil Nadu, who was himself an admirer of the ram and took on the project for a nominal fee.
This unique story from Harihar taluk underscores how an animal can transcend its nature to become a symbol of local pride and sporting spirit, earning a permanent place in the community's heart and landscape.
