Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced that the Kannada flag should be displayed at government offices and private companies in the state mandatorily. The announcement was made during the 71st Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations at Kanteerava Stadium Bengaluru, on November 1, 2026.
This announcement has created a buzz as the state government is also looking at changing the traditional Kannada flag. Shivakumar said that besides yellow and red, another colour could be added in addition to it, and Karnataka’s state emblem should be placed at its centre.
Addressing the gathering after hoisting the flag, Shivakumar greeted people of Karnataka with Kannada Rajyotsava greetings. He said Kannada language, culture, identity and regional heritage needed to be protected.
Kannada Flag to Be Mandatory in Government and Private Offices
One of the major announcements made during the celebrations was that the government would introduce rules to display Kannada flags at government and private offices.
Shivakumar said preparations were underway to issue the necessary directions. He also said that discussions had taken place with legal experts to study the legal aspects of implementing the proposal.
The Deputy Chief Minister said certain related matters will be brought in the next session of legislature. The proposal will also be put up for discussion among legislators and the public before any action is taken.
He said the resolution would then be sent to the Central Government for consideration.
The proposal seeks to increase the visibility of Kannada identity in workplaces and public institutions, as well as for organisations to actively participate in Karnataka’s cultural celebrations.
Kannada Flag May Get an Additional Colour
Another important aspect of Shivakumar’s announcement is the proposed redesign of the Kannada flag.
Traditionally, the Kannada flag has two dominant colours — yellow and red. The government is now considering adding another colour to it and placing the Karnataka state emblem in the middle of the flag.
Shivakumar said the proposed design would be discussed in the legislative session and sent to the Centre for approval.
The government is also preparing guidelines for celebrations during the 71st and 72nd Kannada Rajyotsava periods.
But the changes proposed are still at the discussion and approval stage. The final design and its official status will depend on how consultation and approval proceed.
DK Shivakumar Highlights Kannada Language and Cultural Identity
Shivakumar said in his address that the Kannada language has historical and cultural significance. Kannada has a rich heritage and shouldn’t be restricted by geographical boundaries.
He also talked about how people were asked to record their mother tongue during British rule (to preserve linguistic identity).
The Deputy Chief Minister asked Kannadigas to be committed to protecting their language, land culture, and flag.
He also thanked Kannadigas living all over India and abroad who continue to promote the Kannada language and traditions in different parts of the world.
Bengaluru, Karnataka: CM DK Shivakumar says, "...I have discussed the matter with legal experts and will hold another round of discussions. It is our duty to respect the national flag and its constitutional status. We have reviewed the constitutional provisions and flag regulations regarding the design and placement of flags. The Kannada flag issue will also be discussed in the Assembly, including the guidelines for its display..."
— IANS (@ians_india) November 1, 2026
Karnataka Government Focuses on Kannada Pride
The 71st Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations at Kanteerava Stadium brought officials, students and members of the public together to celebrate Karnataka's formation and cultural heritage.
The event was organised by the Department of School Education and Literacy, and Shivakumar hoisted the flag.
The proposal to make Kannada flags mandatory and whether a redesigned flag should be introduced are now important public issues.
The government has said it wants Kannada identity strengthened through these measures, but the proposals will have to go through the legislative process and approvals before implementation.
For now, the announcement has put Kannada language, cultural pride and the future design of the state flag at the centre of Rajyotsava celebrations this year.
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