Congress MLA K.N. Rajanna has expressed deep grief at the death of Chennamma and described her death as “an irreparable loss to our state” and sent out his deepest condolences to former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda and the bereaved family for her contribution not only to her family but also to Deve Gowda’s long and distinguished public life.
Rajanna spoke to the media about Chennamma's lifelong dedication, saying that she supported him through all aspects of his political and personal life and was there for him for her nearly 70 years of married life with H.D. Deve Gowda. The Congress leader said that even though Deve Gowda became one of India’s most influential politicians, Chennamma was the quiet pillar of strength behind him.
Rajanna said Chennamma’s life was one of commitment, compassion, humility, and selfless service. She did much more than represent the political family, he said, she cared for and nurtured the household and enabled Deve Gowda to concentrate on his responsibilities in public life.
"In her 70 years of life with Deve Gowda, her role in his success was immense. She cared for and nurtured and loved everyone in her family and she was always with him through his political life, she was on his side through the political journey with him and supported him," Rajanna said.
As the Congress MLA observed, spouses of political leaders rarely receive the kind of attention that they deserve, but they are essential to the success of the people who care for them. Chennamma’s life was a reminder of the sacrifices made by family members who quietly shoulder responsibilities behind the scenes so that public representatives can take up their role in governance and public service.
Chennamma was respected for being simple and humble despite being from one of Karnataka’s most powerful political families. She had been deeply connected to her family and community for so long and never got involved in politics. People who knew her personally often described her as a person who took care of people and put family first and was more concerned about the family.
Political leaders from different sides of the political spectrum have offered their condolences following her death, saying she was a woman of respect irrespective of political leanings. Leaders of the party, party workers, well-wishers, and the public have paid tribute to her as a loving wife and mother and to her role as a mentor in the Deve Gowda family.
Rajanna emphasized Karnataka has lost a remarkable woman whose contributions cannot be measured solely by public visibility. Chennamma’s influence was deeply felt through the strong family foundation she helped build that supported one of India’s longest-serving political careers.
Rajanna also extended his sympathies to H.D. Deve Gowda and the entire family, expressing hope that they would find strength during this difficult period. The close bond developed between the couple and the whole family is a real example of lifelong companionship, respect, and caring for one another, he said.
Political life often involves huge personal sacrifice from leaders and their families. There is always family support behind every long public career, and they are there to lend encouragement to each other in defeat and success. Chennamma’s life reflected so much of that in public service.
Her death has made many remember her not only as a wife of a former prime minister, but also a humble woman who kept herself home to her family and had stood behind her husband through decades of political change. And so many people of Karnataka and around the world appreciated her simplicity and grace.
Rajanna’s tribute could be said to echo the sentiments of many who say Chennamma’s legacy is more than politics. Her life is a tribute to family, commitment, sacrifice, and compassion.
While Karnataka grieves her loss, Chennamma will be remembered for the strength she gave to her family, the immense dedication that she showed to H.D. Deve Gowda through his journey, and the example she set in life of service, humility, and caring for other people.
