Bengaluru: Chennamma, wife of former Prime Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) patriarch H.D. Deve Gowda, passed away at Manipal Hospital in Bengaluru on Saturday. She was 85.
Chennamma had been admitted to the hospital on July 15 after developing respiratory complications and was undergoing treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU). She succumbed to her illness despite medical efforts.
Born in Hirehalli village in Hassan district, Chennamma married H.D. Deve Gowda on May 25, 1954. She remained away from active public life and played a key role in managing the family while supporting Deve Gowda throughout his political career.
The couple is survived by four sons — H.D. Revanna, H.D. Balakrishna, H.D. Ramesh Gowda and former Karnataka Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy — and two daughters, Shailaja and Anasuya.
In 2001, Chennamma suffered serious injuries in an acid attack while returning from a temple near Haradanahalli, but recovered after undergoing treatment.
Leaders from across the political spectrum, senior dignitaries and JD(S) workers expressed grief over her demise and extended condolences to the bereaved family.
