Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has formally requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to declare the samadhi of Kittur Rani Chennamma—one of India’s earliest freedom fighters—a "monument of national importance" under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. This request aims to honor the legacy of the queen of Kittur, who led an armed rebellion against the British East India Company in 1824, long before the 1857 Revolt.

Rani Chennamma: A Symbol of Early Resistance Against British Rule

Kittur Rani Chennamma remains an iconic figure in Indian history, revered for her valor and indomitable spirit in resisting British colonial rule. Born in 1778, she became the queen of Kittur, a princely state in present-day Karnataka, and is widely celebrated as one of the first female freedom fighters of India. In 1824, she led an armed rebellion against British forces, opposing their unjust Doctrine of Lapse policy, which denied rightful heirs to princely states. Though ultimately captured, her courage and defiance left an enduring legacy, inspiring countless revolutionaries.

CM Siddaramaiah’s Appeal for National Recognition

In his letter to PM Modi, CM Siddaramaiah emphasized that Rani Chennamma’s samadhi, located in Bailahongala taluk of Belagavi district, is much more than a historical site—it is a sacred monument representing India’s struggle for independence. He highlighted that her sacrifice and leadership continue to inspire generations, and that national monument status would help preserve her legacy for future generations.

"It stands as a beacon of courage and sacrifice, reflecting the determination of a woman who defied the might of the British East India Company in 1824," Siddaramaiah wrote in his letter.

The Need for Conservation and Development

Despite its historical significance, Kittur Rani Chennamma’s samadhi currently lacks proper conservation and maintenance. CM Siddaramaiah stressed that declaring it a national monument under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, would facilitate:

• Better preservation efforts to protect the site from neglect and degradation.

• Increased visibility, attracting tourists, historians, and scholars from across the country and beyond.

• Economic and cultural benefits for the Belagavi region, boosting Karnataka’s tourism sector.

• Educational impact, ensuring that Rani Chennamma’s contributions are recognized nationwide.

Siddaramaiah urged PM Modi to direct the Ministry of Culture and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to expedite the evaluation process and officially declare the site a monument of national importance.

Broader Implications for Karnataka’s Heritage and Tourism

If the samadhi is granted national recognition, it would join the ranks of other historically significant sites in India, such as the Jhansi Fort of Rani Lakshmibai, further cementing Karnataka’s role in India’s freedom struggle.

This move would also bolster Karnataka’s efforts in preserving its historical and cultural sites, strengthening the state’s identity as a region with a rich heritage. Additionally, this recognition would attract investment in heritage conservation, ensuring that sites like Kittur Rani Chennamma’s samadhi receive the care and attention they deserve.

Conclusion

The demand to declare Kittur Rani Chennamma’s samadhi a national monument is a step towards honoring India’s unsung heroes and ensuring their stories continue to inspire future generations. CM Siddaramaiah’s appeal to PM Modi highlights the need for historical preservation, cultural awareness, and tourism development. If approved, this move could significantly impact Karnataka’s heritage conservation efforts, reinforcing Rani Chennamma’s rightful place in the annals of Indian history.

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