Padma Shri awardee Bommagowda, known as ‘Walking Encyclopaedia,’ passes away

Padma Shri awardee and famous folk singer Sukri Bommagowda, also known as Sukrajji, passed away at her home in Badageri village, Uttara Kannada district, on Thursday morning. She had been receiving treatment at a hospital in Manipal before her death.

A guardian of folk music

Sukrajji was a respected figure in the Halakki community and was often called a "walking encyclopedia" for her deep knowledge of folk traditions. She memorized nearly 5,000 folk songs and helped document cultural heritage. In the 1980s, Akashvani recorded hundreds of her songs to preserve them for future generations.

Her impact on society

She lost her husband, Bommagowda, when she was just 16 years old. His death, caused by alcohol addiction, pushed her to lead social awareness campaigns, especially against alcoholism.

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In 2017, she was honored with the Padma Shri for her contributions to folk music. She also received the Rajyotsava Award and the Nadoja Award. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed grief over her death, calling it a great loss to culture. Her influence extended beyond music, as schoolchildren often visited her to learn about simple and sustainable living.