Karnataka Rajyotsava 2025: History, Culture and Celebration of Karnataka Day

Karnataka Rajyotsava, also called Karnataka Foundation Day or Kannada Rajyotsava, is one of the most important days in Karnataka. Observed every year on 1 November, it commemorates the creation of the state and brings Kannadigas together. The day honours Karnataka’s history and highlights the unity and diversity that define its culture.

Historical Significance

The celebration traces back to 1 November 1956, when Kannada-speaking regions from Bombay, Madras, Hyderabad, and Coorg were merged under the States Reorganisation Act to form the Mysore State. In 1973, under Devaraj Urs, the state was officially renamed Karnataka, reflecting a stronger connection to its language and culture. This reorganisation enabled Kannada-speaking communities from different regions to unite under one state.

How Karnataka Rajyotsava Is Celebrated

The day is marked by vibrant displays of Karnataka’s red-and-yellow flag on streets, vehicles, and public buildings. Celebrations begin with flag-hoisting and the singing of the state anthem “Jaya Bharatha Jananiya Tanujate”, written by Kuvempu. Schools, colleges, and offices host events showcasing traditional dances and cultural performances. Karnataka Rajyotsava is a public holiday, with government offices, educational institutions, and banks closed for the day.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar shared greetings on social media platform X:

"For the victory of Siri Kannad, for the prosperity of Siri Kannad. Heartfelt Karnataka Rajyotsava greetings to all the people of our land. It is our supreme duty to use our Kannada language, which has a rich history of thousands of years, daily, and to elevate it to even greater heights. Let Kannada be everyone's speech, let Kannada be everyone's conduct."

The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) team also wished fans on X: “Here’s wishing everyone from Namma Karnataka a Happy Rajyotsava!”

Cultural and Literary Heritage

Karnataka has a rich musical legacy in both Carnatic and Hindustani classical traditions. Purandaradasa, the father of Carnatic music, hailed from the south, while the north produced celebrated Hindustani musicians such as Sawai Gandharva, Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, Gangubai Hangal, and Mallikarjun Mansur. The state also boasts eight Jnanpith Award winners, the second-highest in India after Hindi.

Modern Karnataka

Today, Karnataka is a center of innovation and development, recognized globally for its achievements in start-ups, IT, and other industries—a testament to its strong historical and cultural foundations.