Kishkindha, the renowned birthplace of Hanuman, is currently experiencing a surge in significance. The proposal to establish a new Kishkindha district by dividing the existing Koppal district and incorporating the neighboring fertile taluks is rapidly gaining momentum. A diverse range of stakeholders, including politicians, intellectuals, entrepreneurs, organizations, and the general populace, have voiced their support for the formation of an independent district, thereby bolstering the demand.
After a span of 26 years, the demand for the establishment of a distinct district has resurfaced. In the past, the residents of Gangavathi actively participated in the movement to create a separate district by detaching Koppal from Raichur. During that time, Anjanadri, the birthplace of Hanuman, received limited attention. Furthermore, Gangavathi and its neighboring towns lacked railway connectivity. The formation of an independent district gained support due to the proximity and perceived advantages of Koppal over Raichur.
Since then, Gangavathi has undergone significant advancements, experiencing notable progress. The nearby towns now boast railway connectivity, enhancing transportation networks. The region has gained recognition for its renowned Sona Masoori rice, earning acclaim both nationally and internationally. The expansion of road infrastructure has facilitated improved connectivity. Additionally, the establishment of superior educational institutions has contributed to the area’s development.
Moreover, the presence of the sole Rice Tech Park in the state, situated in the neighboring Karatagi, adds to the region’s significance. Ashokaswamy Herur, President of the Koppal District Chamber of Commerce and a member of the separate district committee, highlights that with numerous pivotal developments unfolding, the creation of a distinct district encompassing the irrigated areas would accelerate growth.
Notable comedian Gangavathi Pranesh, renowned for his comedic performances, has expressed a similar viewpoint, emphasizing the potential for enhanced development if the region with its distinctive characteristics becomes the new Kishkindha district, with Gangavathi serving as its district headquarters.
The demand for Kishkindha as a separate district has garnered support from various political parties. Proposed plans include incorporating Gangavathi, Kanakagiri, Karatagi taluks, and the town of Tavaragera from the existing Koppal district, as well as Kampli from neighboring Ballari district and Sindhanur from Raichur district into the new Kishkindha district. It is noteworthy that all these areas, except Tavaragera, are characterized by irrigation, while Tavaragera is recognized for its granite resources and dry land agriculture. Consequently, a movement is underway to establish a separate district encompassing commercially significant regions.
There have been discussions about employing methods such as bandh (shutdown), petitions, sit-ins, and demands to intensify the struggle. As part of the referendum campaign, the Kishkindha (Gangavathi) district movement committee has been formed.
The forthcoming separate district movement is poised to escalate in the days to come, as evident from the indications thus far.