Kittur Celebrates 200th Anniversary of Historic Victory with Grandeur

The town of Kittur recently celebrated the 200th anniversary of its historic victory against the British with an extravagant folk music parade in Channammana Kittoor, located in Belagavi district. The festivities drew crowds from across the region, filling the Kranti ground to capacity as locals and visitors gathered to honour this significant milestone.

District In-charge Minister Satish Jarakiholi was on hand to welcome the ‘Vijaya Jyoti,’ which had journeyed across the state to commemorate the occasion. Women and Child Development Minister Lakshmi Hebbalaka officially flagged off the vibrant procession, which included the esteemed presence of Madiwala Rajayogindra Swamiji from the Rajguru Sansthan Kalmath.

The parade featured an array of performances, showcasing local culture and tradition. Costumed bands, folk artists, and traditional instrument players enlivened the atmosphere with their music, including captivating performances by Gejzenada, Halagemela, Dollu-Dhamaruga, and Veeragase artists. The excitement was contagious as spectators flowed like a river onto the hundred-wide Rajbeedi.

As the Vijaya Jyoti arrived, the crowd engaged in traditional rituals, pouring water on the road, oiling the flame, applying camphor, breaking coconuts, and making various offerings. Rani Channamma’s idol was adorned with flowers, and 501 women participated in the procession carrying Poornkumbha Kalasha while marching barefoot, embodying the spirit of the event.

This celebration was particularly special as it marked the Kittoor army’s triumph over the British on October 23, 1824, and the bicentenary festivities were larger and more spirited than ever before.

In a parallel tribute in New Delhi, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Union Minister Pralhad Joshi led a floral tribute to Channamma’s statue in the Parliament premises. They acknowledged her bravery and her inspiring role in the Indian freedom struggle. Union Minister V. Somanna proclaimed Channamma as the first courageous woman to challenge British rule, highlighting her legacy in India’s history.

Basava Jaya Mrityunjaya Swamiji suggested instituting annual programs within Parliament to raise awareness about Channamma’s heroic contributions to the nation.

Back in Kittur, Minister Satish Jarakiholi inaugurated the 200th anniversary celebration along with a three-day cultural program. MP Vishweshwar Hegade Kageri released a commemorative stamp and envelope, while Minister Lakshmi Hebbalaka launched two significant publications: ‘The Fortress of Fearless Dreams’ and ‘Swatantrya Sri.’

This grand celebration not only paid homage to the valiant efforts of the Kittoor army but also served as a reminder of Channamma’s enduring legacy in the struggle for independence, fostering a renewed sense of pride and unity among the people.