Ananya Lohia , New Delhi - Chennamma Deve Gowda, wife of former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda, passed away on Saturday at the age of 89 after suffering a massive cardiac arrest at a private hospital in Bengaluru. She had been undergoing treatment for a respiratory illness and was reportedly recovering before her condition suddenly worsened.

Manipal Hospital confirmed that Chennamma suffered a massive cardiac arrest despite showing signs of improvement. Known for staying away from public life, she was widely regarded as the pillar of strength behind H D Deve Gowda's long political journey. Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar announced that she would be accorded full state honours, recognising her as the wife of a former Prime Minister and the mother of Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, Siddaramaiah, B S Yediyurappa and several other leaders expressed their condolences, remembering Chennamma for her humility, simplicity and unwavering support to her family. Her mortal remains have been kept at the family's Bengaluru residence for the public to pay their last respects, while the final rites are expected to be held on Monday near her native village in Hassan district.

Chennamma Deve Gowda's passing marks the end of a quiet yet remarkable life dedicated to her family. Remembered as the steadfast force behind one of India's most prominent political families, she leaves behind a legacy of humility, sacrifice and strength.