Renowned Kannada folk singer, Padma Shri awardee dies

Padma Shree awardee Sukri Bommagowda, a folk singer belonging to the Halakki Vokkaliga tribe in Ankola, Karnataka died at her residence around 4 am on Thursday.

The 91-year-old Bommagowda had been unwell for the past few days and had recently undergone treatment at a private hospital in Mangaluru, sources said.

Bommagowda was known for her vast repertoire of over 5,000 folk songs and her significant contributions to preserving tribal music traditions.

She was honoured with the Hampi University's Nadoja Award in 2006, the Padma Shri in 2017, and the Janapada Shri among other accolades.

Bommagowda, an anti-liqour activist, had also led a public movement against the rampant sale of liquor in her village decades ago. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his condolences on social media 'X'.

"The loss to the cultural world due to the demise of renowned folk singer Sukri Bommagowda cannot be compensated. She was a born artist," posted the CM on Thursday morning.

According to him, music was the life of "Sukriji", who became world famous through Halakki folk songs.

"Along with music, Sukri Bommagowda who was also active in the anti-alcohol movement, had a life and achievements that are exemplary. I also share in the grief of the relatives and friends who have lost Sukri Bommagowda," wrote the CM.

Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar also shared his condolences in 'X'. He called her the "Nightingale of Folk Music".

"Popularly known as 'Sukrijji', she had memorised over 5,000 Halakki folk songs. Her contributions to the fields of folk culture and social service are unforgettable. I pray that God grants peace to her soul and strength to her family to endure the pain of this loss," wrote the Deputy CM.

Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H D Kumaraswamy also posted his condolence message on X.

"I was very saddened to hear the news of the demise of Sukri Bommagowda, who was popularly known as the cuckoo of Halakki songs, Padma Shri awardee and Sukriji. I have heard that more than five thousand Halakki songs were sung by her, which raised awareness about many popular issues including the fight against alcoholism. Her departure is a great loss to the cultural and folk world of the state," he wrote.