Centenary Tribute: Karnataka Remembers B. Rachaiah, Dalit Icon and Former Kerala Governor
Written by Milind Dharmasena
Bengaluru/Chamarajanagar, August 10 –
Today marks the 100th birth anniversary of B. Rachaiah, one of Karnataka’s most admired Dalit leaders and a man whose journey from the remote villages of Chamarajanagar to the Raj Bhavan symbolises perseverance, integrity, and public service. In a political career spanning decades, he not only rose to hold high constitutional offices but also left an indelible mark on the fight for social justice.
From Alur Village to the Corridors of Power
Born on August 10, 1922, in Alur, a small village in Chamarajanagar district, Basavaiah Rachaiah grew up in a modest Dalit household at a time when caste discrimination was deeply entrenched in rural Karnataka. Determined to break free from social barriers, he pursued education — a rare achievement for Dalit youth of his era. Training as an advocate gave him both the confidence and the platform to speak for the marginalised.
Rachaiah’s early involvement in public life began with local community work. He gained a reputation for mediating disputes, helping farmers navigate government schemes, and championing access to schools for Dalit children. These grassroots connections laid the foundation for his political career.
Climbing the Political Ladder
His first foray into electoral politics came when he contested for the Karnataka Legislative Assembly from the Santhemarahalli constituency. Known for his oratory and approachable manner, he became a popular figure not only among Dalits but also among farmers, labourers, and small traders. Over the years, he was elected multiple times, and his consistent presence in the Assembly made him a dependable voice for southern Karnataka.
Rachaiah also served as a Member of Parliament from Chamarajanagar, where he was instrumental in advocating for better road connectivity, irrigation projects, and reservation policies that ensured Dalits had fair representation in education and employment. His ability to navigate both state and central politics earned him respect from leaders across party lines.
Minister and Policy Advocate
As a minister in the Karnataka government, Rachaiah held key portfolios where he focused on land reforms, rural development, and expanding educational opportunities for disadvantaged groups. Colleagues recall that he was meticulous about visiting villages personally to understand the real challenges people faced, rather than relying solely on bureaucratic reports.
One oft-told anecdote from his ministerial days describes him stopping his convoy in a remote hamlet after spotting schoolchildren walking barefoot for miles. Moved by their determination, he ordered immediate steps to provide them with school supplies and pressed the department to open a closer primary school — an example of his hands-on governance style.
Champion for Chamarajanagar
Rachaiah never lost sight of his roots. In Chamarajanagar district, he was not just a politician but a community leader who was accessible to the people. He worked to bring electricity to villages, improve drinking water facilities, and create job opportunities through small-scale industries. His focus on improving rural infrastructure meant that even the smallest hamlets felt connected to the broader state development agenda.
Governor of Kerala and Himachal Pradesh
In 1990, Rachaiah’s career reached its peak when he was appointed Governor of Kerala, after having briefly served as Governor of Himachal Pradesh. Known for his dignified conduct in Raj Bhavan, he acted as a bridge between the state and the Centre during politically sensitive times. His tenure was free from controversy — a testament to his non-partisan approach and deep respect for constitutional norms.
A Family Tradition of Service
Away from politics, Rachaiah was a devoted family man. He and his wife Gowramma raised two sons and five daughters, instilling in them values of humility, service, and perseverance. His son A. R. Krishnamurthy inherited his political instincts, winning assembly elections from Santhemarahalli in 1994 and 1999.
Krishnamurthy’s political journey became part of Karnataka’s electoral folklore in 2004 when he lost by just one vote — an incident that still serves as a case study in the importance of voter turnout. Despite years of defeats, he staged a remarkable comeback in 2023, winning the Kollegal seat by a massive margin of over 59,000 votes. He is now the sitting MLA, continuing the family’s deep engagement with Dalit rights and rural development.
A Lasting Inspiration
As Karnataka marks a century since his birth, B. Rachaiah’s life stands as a reminder that leadership is not defined by privilege but by service. From walking the dusty roads of Alur to working in the high offices of governors’ residences, he carried with him the concerns of the poorest and most marginalised. His story continues to inspire young leaders, particularly from Dalit communities, to view politics as a means of empowerment rather than entitlement.
