Padma Shri Awardee Sukri Bommagowda Passes Away at 88

Renowned Halakki Singer Sukri Bommagowda Passes Away

Sukri Bommagowda, the iconic folk singer from Karnataka and a recipient of the Padma Shri award, passed away at the age of 88. She was widely known as the ‘Nightingale of Halakki’, representing the Halakki Vokkaliga community, which is known for its unique traditions and folk songs.

Contribution to Folk Music and Culture

Sukri Bommagowda played a vital role in preserving and promoting Karnataka’s traditional folk music. She devoted her life to collecting and singing folk songs that narrated stories of rural life, traditions, and social issues. Her efforts helped in reviving the rich Halakki folk culture, making her a significant figure in the world of Indian folk music.

Recognition and Awards

Her remarkable contribution to folk music earned her several accolades, including:

Padma Shri Award (2017) – India’s fourth-highest civilian award.
Rajyotsava Award – Karnataka’s second-highest civilian honor.
Karnataka Janapada Academy Award for her dedication to folklore.

These honors recognize her dedication to keeping traditional music alive for future generations.

Impact on the Halakki Vokkaliga Community

Sukri Bommagowda was not just a singer but also a social reformer who fought for the rights and recognition of the Halakki Vokkaliga tribe. She worked towards empowering women and preserving indigenous traditions. Her efforts were crucial in documenting and popularizing the oral traditions of her community.

Condolences from Across the Nation

Many political leaders, artists, and cultural organizations expressed their grief over her demise. The Karnataka government and various cultural institutions have recognized her as an irreplaceable asset to Indian folklore.

Why This News Is Important?

Significant Loss to Indian Folk Music

Sukri Bommagowda’s passing marks the loss of a legendary figure in Indian folk music. Her contribution was instrumental in keeping Halakki Vokkaliga folk traditions alive. Her absence leaves a void in Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage.

Padma Shri Awardee and National Recognition

As a Padma Shri awardee, her passing is a major national event. The honor she received highlights the importance of preserving regional music traditions, which government exam aspirants should be aware of.

Impact on Tribal and Cultural Studies

For aspirants preparing for exams like UPSC, SSC, and state services, this news is relevant as it relates to tribal heritage, culture, and folk traditions—all crucial topics under Indian Art & Culture.

Historical Context: Legacy of Halakki Folk Music

The Halakki Vokkaliga community, mainly residing in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, has a rich oral tradition of folk music. The community’s women have played a major role in preserving traditional songs, myths, and cultural stories. Sukri Bommagowda emerged as a torchbearer for this tradition, dedicating her life to spreading the unique folklore of her community.

Historically, folk music has been a vital part of India’s cultural heritage, reflecting the lives and struggles of rural communities. Government initiatives like Kala Sanskriti Vikas Yojana and Sangeet Natak Akademi have been instrumental in supporting folk artists.

Key Takeaways from Sukri Bommagowda’s Passing

S.No	Key Takeaway
1.	Sukri Bommagowda, known as the ‘Nightingale of Halakki,’ passed away at 88.
2.	She was a Padma Shri awardee (2017) and a prominent folk singer from Karnataka.
3.	She played a crucial role in preserving the folk traditions of the Halakki Vokkaliga community.
4.	She worked for women’s empowerment and the recognition of tribal heritage.
5.	Her passing is a great loss to Indian folk music and Karnataka’s cultural heritage.

Sukri Bommagowda Padma Shri