Kittur Historical Museum

Kittur Rani Channamma Memorial Government Museum

Type of Museum:
Archaeological

Year of Establishment:
January 10, 1967

Ownership & Governance:
Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage, Karnataka

History/Background:
The Kittur Rani Channamma Memorial Government Museum is situated inside the historic Kittur Fort, along National Highway No. 4. It was established to honor Rani Chennamma, a prominent figure in India’s freedom struggle. The museum was initiated by Sir S.R. Kanti, the then Education Minister of Karnataka, and inaugurated by Smt. Indira Gandhi, the then Prime Minister of India. The museum houses approximately 626 artifacts spread across four galleries, showcasing items from the Desai family, sculptures, inscriptions, hero stones, wooden carvings, coins, and modern paintings.

Measurement:

• Dimensions: 44m (East to West) x 40.30m (North to South)
• Total Area (including garden): Approximately 1,774 square meters

Importance:
The museum is historically significant, marking Kittur’s prominence in the early 19th century as a center of resistance against British colonial rule. It served as the administrative headquarters for the Desai family. Rani Chennamma, alongside her trusted ally Sangolli Rayanna, led a fierce rebellion against the British, becoming the first queen to fight a violent battle and securing a historic victory.

Collections:

1. Historical Relics:
   • Inscriptions and sculptures from the Belagavi region.
   • Articles belonging to the Desai family, symbolizing Rani Chennamma’s sacrifices during the freedom struggle.
2. Desai Family Articles:
   • Displayed items include swords, shields, royal attire, intricately carved wooden architectural elements from the palace, locks, pottery, soldier dresses, and 18th-century weaponry (swords, shields, cannons, etc.).
3. Coins:
   • The museum houses a collection of 152 coins, including 132 copper coins, 8 silver coins, and various alloys. These coins date back to the 17th through 20th centuries, showcasing the currency system of India during that time.
4. Paintings:
   • The gallery features 99 modern art pieces by regional artists, highlighting diverse styles and techniques. Notable works include portraits of Rani Chennamma and various scenes from history, created using watercolors, oil colors, and pen sketches.
5. Sculptures:
   • A rich collection of stone sculptures from the early Chalukyan period to the post-Vijayanagara era, including representations of deities, hero stones, and various religious and historical figures.

Timing:
Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Conclusion:
A visit to the Kittur Rani Channamma Memorial Government Museum offers a captivating glimpse into a pivotal chapter in India’s history, celebrating the bravery and legacy of Rani Chennamma and her role in the freedom struggle.