Central Government to Honor Kittur Rani Chennamma with Annual Festival
Railway Minister of State V Somanna made a significant announcement on Thursday. He declared that the Centre will celebrate the victory festival commemorating Rani Chennamma's triumph in the Anglo-Kittur war starting from next year.
Announcement at Harihar Event
Somanna revealed this decision while addressing the bicentennial celebration of the Har festival and Kittur Rani Chennamma victory festival. The event took place at Veerashaiva Lingayat Panchamasali Peetha in Harihar.
The Union minister stated he will discuss this matter with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the central government officially organizes this celebration annually. Somanna stressed that Kittur Rani Chennamma's history must reach future generations.
"She served as an inspiration not only for the Panchamasali community but for all Kannadigas," Somanna remarked.
Railway Projects Progress
During his speech, Somanna also provided updates on railway development in the state. He confirmed that railway projects worth Rs 49,000 crore, which faced delays for 25 years, are now moving forward.
Several key projects will become reality according to the minister. These include the direct railway line connecting Davangere, Chitradurga, and Tumkur.
Unity Within Panchamasali Community
Former Chief Minister and MP Basavaraj Bommai shared his perspective on community strength. He asserted that society maintains power only when it remains united.
Bommai acknowledged repeated attempts to create divisions between the two Peethas of the Panchamasali community. Despite these efforts, Vachanananda Swami consistently worked to unite hearts. The spiritual leader firmly declared that both Peethas are one entity.
"All community members originally desired a single Peetha," Bommai explained. "However, two Peethas eventually emerged."
The former CM highlighted Vachanananda Swami's unwavering position. Even when allegations surfaced and differences were encouraged, the Swami maintained that both Peethas represent unity.
Religious Status Clarification
Vachanananda Swami, pontiff of Veerashaiva Lingayat Panchamasali Peetha in Harihar, addressed religious identity. He clarified that until Veerashaiva Lingayat receives independent religious recognition, Hinduism remains their official religion.
The spiritual leader explained they adopted a clear stance during the caste census to guide the community properly. He emphasized there exists no hatred or animosity between the Kudalasangama and Harihar Panchamasali seats and their respective leaders.
"Absolutely no animosity exists between the two seats and their leaders," Vachanananda Swami stated. "The head of the Kudalasangama seat has organized the community effectively and performs excellent work."
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event attracted several prominent religious and community figures. Attendees included Shivamurthy Shivacharya Mahaswami of Taralabalu Mutt in Sirigere, Valmiki Prasannanandapuri Mahaswami, and Basava Machideva Mahaswami of Madivala Peetha.
Dr. Basavaraj Veerapur, president of the Hara Jatra festival, also participated in the celebrations alongside other distinguished guests.
