Latest news with #KitturRaniChennamma
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
Kittur Rani Chennamma Mini Zoo undergoes Rs 2.6cr upgrade
Belagavi: In a major boost to ecotourism, development works estimated at Rs 2.6 crore are underway at Kittur Rani Chennamma Mini Zoo in Bhutramanhatti, on the outskirts of Belagavi city. The zoo, spread across 34.4 hectares, is being upgraded to meet the criteria of a Medium Zoo, with plans to expand an additional 20 hectares to accommodate more enclosures. Four major projects are almost complete and are expected to be inaugurated for public access by December this year. The key works consist of a state-of-the-art reptile park, a new crocodile enclosure, and a gigantic, illuminated entry tower featuring a statue of freedom fighter Kittur Rani Chennamma. Reptile park to feature exotic species One of the most anticipated additions is the upcoming reptile park, which will house 12 exotic snake species in male-female pairs. The line-up includes the King Cobra, Rattlesnake, Rock Python, Reticulated Python, Green Anaconda, Lake Snake and Monitor Lizard. The King Cobra and large pythons are expected to be star attractions. Crocodile enclosure A new 1,200-square-metre crocodile enclosure is also under construction. While a Mugger crocodile already resides at the zoo, two Gharials will soon join the enclosure. Meanwhile, a vibrant bird zone has been established, featuring species such as lovebirds, cockatiels, sun conures, zebra finches and rose-ringed parakeets. An exclusive section showcasing distinct sheep breeds from across India is also being developed. Additionally, the construction of a museum and an auditorium is in progress to enhance visitor engagement and learning. A 65-foot-tall iconic signage structure has been installed at the zoo's entrance. Adorned with illuminated logos and topped with a statue of Rani Chennamma, the tower is designed to be visible from over a kilometre away, improving visibility and attracting travellers on the highway. Towards Medium Zoo status According to range forest officer Pavan Kuraning, a proposal will be sent to the Central Zoo Authority of India by the end of this month, seeking approval for upgradation. "We plan to expand the zoo by another 20 hectares to increase animal enclosures," he told the TOI. The zoo currently operates a safari and houses 216 animals and birds, including three tigers, two lions, three leopards, bears, blackbucks, sambar deer, hyenas and jackals.
Hans India
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Legendary film actress Saroja Devi laid to rest with full state honours
Mandya: Legendary film actress B Saroja Devi was laid to rest in her native village of Dashavara in Mandya district with full state honours on Tuesday. The 87-year-old actress passed away due to age-related ailments at her home in Malleswaram, Bengaluru, on July 14. Her funeral was held in accordance with Vokkaliga traditions, with burial rites performed. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, along with prominent personalities from the Karnataka film industry including Jayamala, Rockline Venkatesh, Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce President M Narasimhalu, and film producer Basant Kumar Patil, paid their final respects. Born on January 7, 1938, in Bengaluru, Saroja Devi rose to become one of Indian cinema's most celebrated and iconic actresses. She made her film debut in the early 1950s and went on to act in over 180 films across multiple languages. Known for her elegance, powerful screen presence, and versatility, she quickly gained widespread fame. Her performances in films such as 'Sasural', 'Kittur Rani Chennamma', 'Anbe Vaa,' and 'Enga Veettu Pillai' are remembered as milestones in Indian cinema. Saroja Devi was particularly acclaimed for her portrayals in historical and mythological films, where she played strong female characters with conviction and grace. She received several prestigious honours, including the Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri from the Government of India, and the Dr Rajkumar Lifetime Achievement Award from the Karnataka government. Following the news of her passing, condolences poured in from across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, political leaders, and prominent figures from the Indian film industry paid tribute to her, acknowledging her enduring legacy and invaluable contributions to Indian cinema. Speaking to reporters after paying homage at her residence in Bengaluru, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah described her demise as 'a major loss to the entire film industry'. 'B Saroja Devi entered the film industry at a very young age and served it for nearly 70 years. She earned the title of 'Abhinaya Saraswati' early in her career and became a multi-talented actress who worked in Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi films,' he added.
The Hindu
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
Final rites of Saroja Devi will be conducted with full State honours: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah offered floral tribute to legendary actress B Saroja Devi, who passed away at her residence in Malleswaram, Bengaluru. The 87-year-old actress died on Monday (July 14, 2025) due to age-related illness. He stated, 'On my behalf, and on behalf of the Government of Karnataka, I pray for her soul to rest in peace and for strength to her family members to bear this loss.' Siddaramaiah also announced that state honours would be accorded at her cremation. Her last rites will be performed in her native village Dhashavara in Channapatna taluk of Mandya district on July 15, 2025. Speaking to reporters after paying homage, the Chief Minister described her demise as 'a major loss to the entire film industry.' 'B Saroja Devi entered the film industry at a very tender age and served it for nearly 70 years. At a young age, she earned the title of 'Abhinaya Saraswati' and became a multi-talented actress who worked in Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi films,' Siddaramaiah said. Saroja Devi brought life into the characters she portrayed and acted alongside leading actors of her era, including M G Ramachandran, N T Rama Rao, Shivaji Ganesan, Dilip Kumar, Dev Anand, Rajendra Kumar, Akkineni Nageswara Rao, and Dr Rajkumar, he added. The Chief Minister also said that Saroja Devi had immensely contributed to the growth of the Kannada film industry. He also recalled having met Saroja Devi on several occasions. "She was always warm and affectionate. I have also watched some of her memorable films such as Kittur Rani Chennamma, Bhagyavanthalu, Babruvahana, and Nyayave Devaru," he recalled.
New Indian Express
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
PM Modi remembers legendary actor Saroja Devi as an 'exemplary icon of Indian cinema'
BENGALURU: Expressing deep sadness over the demise of multi-lingual actor B Saroja Devi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered her as an 'exemplary icon of Indian cinema'. 'Saddened by the passing of the noted film personality, B Saroja Devi Ji. She will be remembered as an exemplary icon of Indian cinema and culture. Her diverse performances left an indelible mark across generations. Her works, spanning different languages and covering diverse themes, highlighted her versatile nature. My condolences to her family and admirers. Om Shanti,' the PM said on social media. Fondly called 'Abhinaya Saraswathi' in Kannada and 'Kannadathu Paingili' in Tamil, the 87-year-old star passed away at her Malleswaram residence in Bengaluru on Monday morning. Hundreds of people, including politicians and film personalities, paid homage to the legendary actress. All-India Congress Committee General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala, former chief minister Basavaraj Bommai, Leader of Opposition in the Assembly R Ashoka, actors Shivrajkumar, Jaggesh, and Upendra, Bengaluru Rural MP Dr CN Manjunath, former ministers TB Jayachandra and Janardhana Reddy, Kannada Film Chamber of Commerce President Narasimhalu and others paid their last respects to the actress. The mortal remains will be kept till Tuesday morning and at 11.30 am, it will be taken to her village Dashavara in Channapatna for the last rites, informed her son Harsha Gautham. The family had decided to donate her eyes and the procedure was completed. The actress will be laid to rest with state honours. CM Siddaramaiah also expressed his condolence. 'The news of the death of veteran Kannada actress is painful. Her departure is a great loss to the Indian film industry. May Sarojadevi's soul rest in peace. My condolences to the bereaved family and fans said,' the chief minister said. Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy also paid his tributes. 'Sarojadevi, who acted with all the leading actors of all Indian languages, including the great actor Dr Rajkumar, was the goddess of acting for her fans. Her unique acting kept us all spellbound. She has made a huge contribution to enriching the Kannada silver screen; she has acted in more than 200 films, including Kittur Rani Chennamma and Babruvahana. Her passing is a great loss to the film industry and the nation. May her soul rest in peace and may God grant her family and fans the strength to bear this grief,' he said.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Bengaluru's Lalbagh flower show to honour Chennamma & Rayanna this Independence Day
Bengaluru: The 218th edition of the annual Lalbagh Independence Day flower show, scheduled from Aug 7 to 17, will pay a floral tribute to Kittur Rani Chennamma and Sangolli Rayanna, Karnataka's iconic freedom fighters. Their stories of resistance against British colonial rule will be recreated through elaborate flower arrangements inside the famed Glass House. The show is expected to draw a record 11 lakh visitors, surpassing the 4.7 lakh footfall seen during the Republic Day edition earlier this year. "The theme this time is the valiant fight led by Chennamma and Rayanna in the 1820s. Their sacrifice and patriotism will be depicted entirely using flowers," said M Jagadeesh, joint director of horticulture, Lalbagh. Preparation for the event began over three months ago, with the department cultivating more than 6 lakh flowering plants in-house. "We've also sent out procurement requests to nurseries across Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Nandi Hills, and Ooty to supply special varieties," Jagadeesh added. You Can Also Check: Bengaluru AQI | Weather in Bengaluru | Bank Holidays in Bengaluru | Public Holidays in Bengaluru Ban on photo sessions? In a significant policy shift, the horticulture department is also contemplating a ban on pre-wedding shoots, baby showers, and commercial video or photo shoots inside Lalbagh. The proposal follows a similar restriction imposed recently at Cubbon Park. "Several commercial shoots disturb the peace of the garden and often damage plant life. We're considering a blanket ban on such activities during the flower show, and potentially throughout the year," said a senior Lalbagh horticulture official. "The idea is to protect the biodiversity of the garden and ensure a quality experience for all visitors." The department is likely to act on the recommendations of an expert panel led by environmentalist AN Yellappa Reddy. The panel has suggested banning activities that may harm flora and fauna or cause overcrowding. "We are committed to maintaining Lalbagh's ecological balance. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the garden, but not at the cost of its sustainability," the official said. The Lalbagh flower show is held twice annually — in Jan and Aug — and is one of Bengaluru's most visited cultural events, attracting tourists and flower enthusiasts from across the country and abroad.
