Chennamma Deve Gowda, Wife of Former PM H.D. Deve Gowda, Passes Away in Bengaluru

Chennamma, the wife of former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, passed away on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Manipal Hospital in Bengaluru. She was 89 years old and had been admitted to the hospital for respiratory complications and chest congestion. Sources from the hospital indicated that Chennamma experienced a cardiac arrest following her treatment for breathing difficulties. She had been under the care of a multidisciplinary team of specialists at the hospital. Her condition had reportedly deteriorated, leading to her admission to the Intensive Care Unit. While her vital parameters were reported to be stable at various points, the underlying respiratory issues remained a concern for the medical team and her family. Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, son of Chennamma and Deve Gowda, had cancelled his engagements to be with his mother at the hospital. Born in Hassan taluk, Chennamma married H.D. Deve Gowda in 1954. The couple had six children. She largely remained away from public life, focusing on managing the family and supporting her husband’s extensive political career. Despite her low public profile, she was considered a significant source of strength and support throughout Deve Gowda’s tenure as Prime Minister and his subsequent political activities. Chennamma had previously survived an acid attack in 2001. Political leaders from various parties expressed their condolences following the news of her passing.

Obituary

Chennamma Deve Gowda, wife of former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, died at the age of 89 due to cardiac arrest. She had been undergoing treatment for respiratory ailments at Manipal Hospital in Bengaluru since July 15, 2026. Her health took a critical turn, and despite the best medical efforts, she could not be revived. She is survived by her husband, former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, and their six children, including Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy and Holenarasipura MLA H.D. Revanna. Chennamma was known for her quiet strength and unwavering support for her husband, who had a long and prominent career in Indian politics. The news of her demise was met with widespread condolences from across the political spectrum in Karnataka and nationally. Security was enhanced around Manipal Hospital as a precautionary measure, anticipating the gathering of supporters and well-wishers.

Background

Chennamma Deve Gowda was born in Hassan taluk and married H.D. Deve Gowda on May 25, 1954. The couple were blessed with six children. While H.D. Deve Gowda was actively involved in national politics, serving as Prime Minister from June 1, 1996, to April 21, 1997, Chennamma managed the household and raised their children. She was a survivor of a severe acid attack incident in February 2001, from which she recovered remarkably. Her passing marks the end of a significant chapter for the Deve Gowda family, who have been central figures in Karnataka politics for decades. The family has been at the forefront of the Janata Dal (Secular) party, influencing state and national political landscapes. The hospital confirmed her stable condition with normal vital parameters initially, but the respiratory complications proved insurmountable. The family, including her sons, were present at the hospital, and former Prime Minister Deve Gowda was reportedly emotional upon receiving the news. The passing of Chennamma Deve Gowda has led to an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the country, acknowledging her role as a steadfast pillar of support for one of India’s most enduring political figures.

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