Mysuru: Observing that Kittur Rani Chenamma was a symbol of Independence movement in India, MLA and former Minister Basavaraj Bommai said that Rani Chennamma was one of the first female ruler to lead an armed rebellion against the British East India company in 1824, even before the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857.

He was speaking after inaugurating the newly formed ‘Veera Vanithe Rani Chennamma Sevayam Seva Sangha’ at Jaganmohan Palace in the city this morning.

Pointing out that Rani Chennamma was one of the foremost warriors and patriots who fought the British, Basavaraj Bommai said Rani Chennamma fought the British fiercely with the aid of her Lieutenant Sangolli Rayanna for years, but was ultimately captured and imprisoned at Bailahongal fort, where she died in 1829. Sangolli Rayanna continued the guerilla war until 1829, when he was captured, he said.

Noting that Chennamma’s legacy and first victory are still commemorated at Kittur in Belagavi district, Bommai said the Kittur Utsava is being held in October annually.

Asking the Sangha to strive for the causes for which it has been established, he said the Sangha must work towards achieving  3E’s- Education, Employment and Empowerment.

Meritorious students of the Sangha members were presented Pratibha Puraskara on the occasion. Suttur Seer Sri Shivaratri Deshikendra Swamiji graced the occasion.

Hosamutt Seer Chidananda Swamiji, Athani Motagi Mutt Seer Prabhu Channabasava Swamiji, Yoga exponent and Swasha Guru Vachanananda Swami, Sangha President M. Nanjundaswamy, MLA Dr. Geetha Mahadevaprasad, former Davanagere University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Indumathi, Ex-MLC Thontadarya, office-bearers of the Sangha and others were present.