Naadaprabhu Kempegowda (1510–1569) was a chieftain under the Vijayanagara Empire and is most notable for founding the city of Bengaluru (Bangalore) in India. Here are some key points about him:
1. Birth and Early Life: Kempegowda was born on 27 June 1510 in a village near Yelahanka, now part of Bangalore, Karnataka. His father was Kempananje Gowda, a chieftain under the Vijayanagara Empire.
2. Founding of Bengaluru: He is credited with founding the city of Bengaluru in 1537. He envisioned a city with a proper infrastructure and developed it accordingly.
3. Fortification: Kempegowda built a mud fort in Bengaluru, which later became the central part of the city. He also constructed several watchtowers around the city, the remnants of which can still be seen.
4. Infrastructure Development: He developed many lakes and tanks in and around Bangalore to cater to the water needs of the city, such as the Ulsoor Lake and Kempambudhi Lake.
5. Administration: Kempegowda established a well-organized administrative system and promoted trade and commerce, making Bengaluru a prominent trading center.
6. Social Reforms: He was known for his progressive outlook and implemented several social reforms, including the prohibition of certain inhumane practices prevalent at the time.
7. Cultural Patronage: Kempegowda was a patron of art and culture. He supported various forms of traditional arts and crafts, contributing to the cultural richness of the region.
8. Religious Contributions: He constructed several temples and encouraged religious tolerance. Notable temples include the Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple and the Basavanagudi Bull Temple.
9. Legacy: Kempegowda’s legacy is honored in Karnataka, especially in Bangalore, where many landmarks are named after him, including Kempegowda International Airport and Kempegowda Bus Station.
10. Statue and Memorials: In recent years, statues and memorials have been erected to commemorate his contributions. The Kempegowda Statue at the Bengaluru International Airport is one such tribute.
11. Visionary: His foresight in urban planning laid the foundation for Bengaluru’s growth as a major city. His contributions to the city’s layout and infrastructure are still recognized and respected.
12. Education and Libraries: He promoted education and established schools and libraries to ensure the literacy and cultural advancement of his people.
13. Economic Policies: Kempegowda introduced various economic policies that boosted local agriculture and trade, contributing to the prosperity of his region.
14. Family and Succession: His descendants continued to play significant roles in the region’s administration even after his death in 1569.
15. Vijayanagara Empire: As a feudatory of the Vijayanagara Empire, he had a significant degree of autonomy in governing his territories, which he utilized to develop Bengaluru.
Kempegowda’s impact on the region is profound, and he is celebrated as a visionary leader whose contributions laid the groundwork for the modern city of Bengaluru.
