Sangolli Rayanna, born in the village of Sangolli in the Belagavi district, Karnataka, in 1798, is famous for being among the earliest and most fearless freedom fighters in the history of India. Rayanna had high courage and a superior ability in combat from a very young age. He started in the country as a poor boy in a farmer's family, then he rose to become commander-in-chief of Rani Chennamma's armed forces as leader in Kittur’s army and quickly gained a reputation as a military genius.
Rayanna, under Rani Chennamma, commanded several military campaigns to keep Kittur safe from the British East India Company's aggression at the first of the 19th century. Despite scant resources, his guile was met with loyal soldiers and villagers by way of his strong leadership. Rayanna refused to give up even after the queen’s death in 1829. He arranged guerrilla campaigns that recruited peasants and armies to fight British domination. His rapid and erratic assaults and retreats challenged the colonial units, proving to them that they could go no further than superior armaments if they had the courage and spine to go out and fight.
Sadly, Rayanna’s ceaseless fight had ended when the British captured him in 1830. He was hanged on 26 January 1831 and became a martyr for the freedom of India. Such dates are also celebrated as his death anniversary (Punyeshmarane) in Karnataka. Curiously, it also coincides with India’s Republic Day and so it has been given a dual meaning of national celebration and a day to commemorate one of Karnataka’s greatest heroes.
Educational institutions, cultural institutions and public places throughout the state honor him with patriotic programs, memorial ceremonies and tributes to his sacrifice. The impact of Sangolli Rayanna is much broader than his military accomplishments. He represents bravery, perseverance, and constant faith in his rights and his country. His life is a reminder that to fight for freedom was not just the task of kings and national leaders but also ordinary individuals brave enough to stand up against injustice.
Today his tale is timeless and continues motivating generations as we uphold the fight for freedom, resistance, and patriotism. Sangolli Rayanna is a great example of bravery and sacrifice; a true pride of Karnataka, and a lasting symbol of India’s fight for freedom.
