K. Chengalaraya Reddy

K. Chengalaraya Reddy Biography

Kyasamballi Chengalaraya Reddy, shortly called K. Chengalaraya Reddy was a very influential politician of Karnataka, who served as the state’s first chief minister, soon after Indian independence. The state was then known as Mysore, before unification process began. A pioneer in politics, he served the term during 25 October 1947 – 30 March 1952. He represented Indian National Congress. His daughter-in-law Anitha Reddy is a social worker and Padmashri winner too. His grandson Raam Reddy is an international award winning filmmaker of Kannada movies, best known for 2016 film, Thithi – his maiden work.

Reddy was born on 4 May 1902 in Kyasamballi of Kolar, present day Karnataka. He graduated in law before he turned active in politics. As a political activist, he co-founded Praja Paksha (Peoples' Party) in the year 1930. The party gained attention and support in rural areas, when it supported farmers and highlighted their issues with state of Mysore. In 1934, the party merged with Praja Mitra Mandali joined to form the Praja Samyukta Paksha, and Reddy served as Party president during 1935-1937. It later merged with Indian National Congress, and actively participated in freedom struggle movement.

After India got independence, Kyasamballi Chengalaraya Reddy was elected as the first chief minister of Mysore. He served this position for a term of 5 years, and got elected to Mysore state assembly in the next assembly elections. He joined Rajya Sabha and served a term of 5 years. In 1957 Lok Sabha elections, he contested and won for Kolar constituency. He served as Union Minister for Housing and Supplies during 1957–61 and in the reshuffle he was given the portfolio, Commerce and Industries (1961–62). He served as the governor of Madhya Pradesh from 1965 to 1971. He passed away in 1976 aged 73.

Published: N/A

Updated: July 03, 2018