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Defence
MoS V Somanna says Kittur Rani Chennamma’s bravery still fuels Indian soldiers
✍️ The Economic Times
🗓 24 Oct 2026, 06:46 AM
👁 13
Minister of State V Somanna highlighted that the historic courage of Kittur Rani Chennamma continues to motivate the Indian armed forces.
During a recent interaction with defence personnel, Minister of State V Somanna remarked that the legacy of Kittur Rani Chennamma still serves as a source of inspiration for today’s soldiers. He emphasized that the queen’s defiance against colonial forces embodies the spirit of resilience that the armed forces strive to uphold.
Kittur Rani Chennamma, who ruled the princely state of Kittur in present‑day Karnataka in the early 19th century, is celebrated for leading an armed resistance against the British East India Company. Her stand is regarded as one of the earliest recorded acts of Indian armed opposition to colonial rule.
Somanna’s comment reflects a broader effort within the defence establishment to draw morale from India’s historical heroes. By invoking Chennamma’s courage, officials aim to reinforce a sense of continuity between past sacrifices and the present duty of protecting the nation.
The reference also underscores the importance of cultural memory in shaping the ethos of the armed forces, reminding soldiers that the values of bravery and self‑less service have deep roots in India’s heritage.
Kittur Rani Chennamma, who ruled the princely state of Kittur in present‑day Karnataka in the early 19th century, is celebrated for leading an armed resistance against the British East India Company. Her stand is regarded as one of the earliest recorded acts of Indian armed opposition to colonial rule.
Somanna’s comment reflects a broader effort within the defence establishment to draw morale from India’s historical heroes. By invoking Chennamma’s courage, officials aim to reinforce a sense of continuity between past sacrifices and the present duty of protecting the nation.
The reference also underscores the importance of cultural memory in shaping the ethos of the armed forces, reminding soldiers that the values of bravery and self‑less service have deep roots in India’s heritage.