Chennamma Deve Gowda, Wife of Former PM HD Deve Gowda, Dies at Manipal Hospital

Chennamma Deve Gowda, the wife of former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda and the matriarch of one of Karnataka's most influential political families, passed away on Saturday afternoon at Manipal Hospital in Bengaluru. She was in her late 80s and died after suffering a sudden and massive cardiac arrest at approximately 4:00 PM.

She had been admitted to Manipal Hospital on Wednesday night to receive treatment for a respiratory ailment. Hospital officials noted that she had initially shown positive signs of improvement and was progressing well prior to the sudden cardiac event.

In an official statement released on Saturday, Manipal Hospital expressed its regrets over her sudden demise. The hospital statement read: "We regret to inform you that Mrs Chennamma suffered a massive cardiac arrest despite being on the road to recovery at 4 pm today."

At the time of her passing, her husband, former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda, was present at the hospital. Her son, Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy, along with other close family members, were also by her side at Manipal Hospital during her final moments.

Chennamma and HD Deve Gowda were married in 1954. Over their decades-long marriage, the couple raised six children, consisting of four sons and two daughters. Among their children are prominent political figures, including Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy and Holenarasipur MLA HD Revanna.

Throughout her life, Chennamma chose to maintain a low public profile, despite the high-profile political careers of her husband and sons. Former Prime Minister Deve Gowda frequently spoke of her role in his life, crediting her unwavering support, resilience, and personal sacrifices as the foundation that enabled him to pursue his demanding political career over several decades.

In addition to her role as a supportive partner and matriarch, her life also saw moments of personal trial. In 2001, Chennamma survived an acid attack that was reportedly linked to a family dispute.

Political leaders from across the region have expressed deep mourning over her death, recognizing her significant, quiet impact on the family that has shaped Karnataka's political landscape for generations.