Chennamma Deve Gowda, the wife of former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, passed away at a private hospital in Bengaluru on Saturday at the age of 85. She had been undergoing treatment for severe respiratory complications for the past few days and died following a heart attack, according to hospital sources.

Chennamma was admitted to Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru, where a team of specialist doctors was monitoring her condition. Family sources said her health deteriorated suddenly on Thursday, leading Deve Gowda and his sons, Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy and H.D. Revanna, to visit the hospital and consult doctors regarding her treatment.

The Deve Gowda family is yet to announce the final venue for her last rites, though sources indicated that the funeral may be held in Hassan, the former Prime Minister’s home district. Family members remained present at the hospital as they monitored her condition during the final days of her treatment.

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Following the news of her demise, leaders across Karnataka expressed condolences. BJP Karnataka President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra said Chennamma played an important role in supporting Deve Gowda throughout his political journey and contributed significantly to his public life. He offered prayers for the departed soul and extended sympathy to the bereaved family.

Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy had cancelled his scheduled programmes due to his mother’s health condition, while H.D. Revanna and his wife Bhavani Revanna stayed at the hospital. Kumaraswamy had earlier recalled that his mother had survived a serious health crisis nearly 25 years ago following an acid attack and expressed hope during her recent treatment.

Chennamma was widely regarded as a strong support system behind H.D. Deve Gowda during his long political career. Condolence messages described her as a symbol of simplicity, grace, and family values, with leaders stating that her contributions and support would be remembered by those who knew her. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams Trust Board member S. Naresh Kumar also expressed grief and prayed for strength for the Deve Gowda family during their loss.

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