Puttur, August 8, 2026: A Tiranga Yatra held in Puttur on Saturday brought attention to several lesser-discussed chapters of India's freedom struggle, with BJP MLC and former Minister C.T. Ravi stressing the need to remember the contributions of freedom fighters who followed different paths in the fight against British rule.
Speaking at the public meeting at Puttur Town Hall after the yatra, Ravi said India's Independence should not be viewed only through the history of the non-violent movement.
He said the freedom struggle involved different forms of resistance and the sacrifices of people from different parts of the country. According to him, remembering these contributions is important for younger generations to understand the broader history of India's Independence.
From Savarkar to Patel
Ravi referred to Veer Savarkar while making the point that not every freedom fighter followed the Gandhian approach of non-violence.
He also highlighted the role of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, particularly his contribution to the integration of the princely states after Independence. Ravi argued that Patel's leadership was important in shaping the India that exists today. The references brought attention to the fact that India's freedom movement and the subsequent making of the Indian Union involved different leaders, movements and approaches.
Remembering freedom fighters from coastal Karnataka
The speech also brought the focus closer to home. Ravi referred to Kedambadi Ramayya Gowda and Manjabaidya, two names associated with the history of resistance in coastal Karnataka.
For Puttur and the wider Dakshina Kannada region, such references have a particular significance. They connect the national freedom narrative with the history of resistance that unfolded in the coastal belt.
The mention of these regional figures also provides an opportunity to look beyond the familiar national names and explore the stories of people who participated in resistance movements at the local level.
Tiranga Yatra connects history with the present
The Tiranga Yatra began at the Sri Mahalingeshwara Temple grounds in Puttur and proceeded through the city's main roads before concluding at Kille Maidan.
The programme began with prayers at the temple. Senior advocate Arun Shyam offered floral tributes to a tableau of Bharat Mata, while former Dakshina Kannada MP Nalin Kumar Kateel handed over the national flag.
Dakshina Kannada MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta said the Tricolour became an important symbol during India's freedom struggle and continues to remind people of the sacrifices made to free the country from colonial rule. The event brought together BJP leaders, elected representatives, party workers and members of the public.
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Puttur Tiranga Yatra, freedom struggle Puttur, Kedambadi Ramayya Gowda, Manjabaidya, Dakshina Kannada freedom fighters, Puttur history, Puttur News, Puttur Suddi, Citizen News Puttur