Karnataka has been a land of royalty since the times of the Chindaka Nagas, Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas, and Yadavas. The Vijayanagara Empire, under Krishnadevaraya, brought immense pride to Karnataka with its wealth and the military prowess of its emperors. Later, the Wodeyars of Mysore ruled the kingdom until 1950. After India’s independence, the state of Karnataka was formed.
Karnataka is also known as Karunadu. The etymology of Karunadu comes from "kari," meaning black, and "nadu," meaning land or state. Some believe the name refers to the black cotton soil of the region. The name "Karnata" has been in use since ancient times, appearing in Sanskrit dramas. Another interpretation suggests that "karu" means elevated, indicating that the name refers to a highland region.
The remarkable carvings and architecture of the Hoysala kingdom’s Belur temple continue to mesmerize visitors. Artistic sculptures in many lesser-known temples across Karnataka stand out as some of the finest wonders, even today. The ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire still exude the fragrance of royal supremacy. Karnataka’s history is a source of pride and inspiration. The grandeur of the Mysore and Bengaluru palaces is rich with cultural art that exemplifies royal dignity.
Nature has been generous to Karnataka. Major rivers like the Cauvery, Tungabhadra, and Krishna are lifelines for the state’s people. The dams built on these rivers serve as reservoirs and power generators, supporting the state’s water and electricity supplies. Karnataka’s waterfalls are picturesque, cascading gracefully to create a serene atmosphere. Jog Falls is the second-highest plunge waterfall in the world. The coffee estates around Kodagu produce 71% of India's total coffee.
Karnataka is also known for its exquisite weaves and silks, which are among the most cherished gifts for women. Mysore silk and Ilkal sarees are profoundly captivating. Channapatna toys, a form of wooden art, are highly desirable. Music, the universal language, finds a strong presence in Karnataka, the birthplace of Carnatic music. Purandara Dasa is regarded as the "Pitamaha" (Great Grandfather) of Carnatic music.
Kannada inscriptions date back to the 3rd century BCE, with a significant literary presence from the 7th century AD onwards. Works like Kavirajamarga by Amoghavarsha I, Harihara's Ragale, and Raghavanka’s Shatpadi are still celebrated today. The Vachana Sahitya by Basavanna, Akka Mahadevi, and Allama Prabhu conveyed timeless morals and ethics that have deeply touched people's hearts. This literature educated even the most unlearned in ethics and discipline. During the Middle Ages, literature took on a new form with Dasa Sahitya, teaching wisdom through songs. Kumaravyasa’s Bharatha provided a profound interpretation of the epic Mahabharata. Modern Kannada literature boasts poets like Kuvempu, Da Ra Bendre, and Gokak. Kuvempu’s inspiring words, "Sirigannadam Gelge, Sirigannadam Balge" (The richness of Kannada will triumph, the richness of Kannada will live on), resonate deeply with Kannadigas. He also famously said, "Elladaru iru enthadaru iru, endendigu nee Kannadavaagiru; Kannadave Sathya, Kannadave Nithya," meaning, "No matter where you are or how you are, always be a Kannadiga; Kannada is the truth, Kannada is eternal."
The aroma of Karnataka's cuisine is irresistible, with many dishes that have stood the test of time. Some beloved recipes include Rava Idli (steamed semolina and spices), Bisibelebath (a lentil, rice, and spicy porridge), and Mandige (a sweet, crispy, buttery bread). Mysorepak, accidentally discovered by a royal chef in the palace kitchen of Jayachamraja Wodeyar, remains a delightful sweet treat. These delicious foods are unparalleled.
Some of the famous Kannadigas who have achieved great success in their respective fields include Madhvacharya, Krishnadevaraya, Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, Kittur Rani Channamma, Onake Obavva, R.K. Narayan, Dr. Rajkumar, Vishnuvardhan, Aishwarya Rai, Prakash Padukone, Deepika Padukone, Anil Kumble, Shakuntala Devi, Beechi, Pitilu Chowdaiah, Kengal Hanumanthaiah, Bhimsen Joshi, Infosys Narayana Murthy, Kempegowda, Krantiveera Sangolli Rayanna, and many others.
Kannadigas' honor and respect for their motherland Karnataka are boundless. The blessings of the motherland and the mother tongue are the best shields for Kannadigas.
_Roopa Rani Bussa
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