Kempe Gowda
(27 June 1510 - 1569)
Born
Hiriya Kempegowda27 June 1510 Yelahanka, Vijayanagara Empire (modern day Bengaluru, Karnataka, India)
Died
1569 (aged 58-59) Bengaluru, Vijayanagara Empire (modern day Karnataka, India)
Kempe Gowda, also known as Nadaprabhu Kempegowda, was a 16th-century chieftain under the Vijayanagara Empire and is widely regarded as the founder of Bangalore. He is celebrated for his contributions to the city's development, including the construction of the Bangalore Fort, the layout of Bengaluru Pete (the original town), and the establishment of numerous temples, reservoirs, and tanks.
Here's a more detailed look at Kempegowda:
Founding of Bangalore: Kempe Gowda I is credited with envisioning and laying the foundation for what would become the city of Bangalore. He built a fortified town, including a military cantonment, and planned the city's layout, dividing it into smaller areas based on the occupations of the people. This included establishing markets and residential areas.
Key Contributions:
Fortification:
Kempe Gowda built the Bangalore Fort, which served as a strategic defense point and a symbol of the city's strength.
Town Planning:
He is known for planning the layout of Bengaluru Pete, the original town, including its roads, markets, and residential areas.
Water Management:
He constructed numerous tanks and reservoirs to ensure water supply for the growing population and for irrigation.
Societal Reforms:
He is also recognized for his social reforms, including prohibiting the custom of amputating fingers during the Bandi Devaru ritual.
Patron of Art and Learning:
Kempe Gowda was a patron of art and learning and encouraged the development of the region.
Legacy:
Kempe Gowda's vision and planning laid the groundwork for the modern city of Bangalore.
Many of the city's current landmarks, such as temples, lakes, and markets, trace their origins back to his time.
The Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore is named in his honor.
His Jayanti (birth anniversary) is celebrated annually, with various events and programs to commemorate his contributions.
In summary, Kempe Gowda was a visionary leader who played a crucial role in shaping the city of Bangalore into the thriving metropolis it is today.
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