Obituary: Indira Gandhi’s Close Aide, First to Vote in 32 Elections: Remembering Bottolanda Mitoo Chengappa

Chengappa, a staunch Congress loyalist for over five decades, was widely respected as a kingmaker and strategist, even though he never held elected office. Photo: DH/Graphics: The Kodagu Express

MADIKERI: Kodagu Congress veteran Bottolanda Mitoo Chengappa (83), a towering presence in Kodagu’s political, agricultural, and tourism landscape, passed away on Tuesday night at a private hospital in Ammathi. He had been ailing for several months and was under rest at his home.

Chengappa, a staunch Congress loyalist for over five decades, was widely respected as a kingmaker and strategist, even though he never held elected office. He contested the Madikeri Town Municipal Council and MLC elections but remained undeterred after defeats, choosing instead to serve the party behind the scenes. He maintained close ties with several generations of Congress leadership—from former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to present-day leaders like Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, and Home Minister G. Parameshwara.

Known for his deep interest in agriculture and tourism, Chengappa was also a prominent coffee planter who hosted a steady stream of visitors at his estate bungalow, including film legends like Rajinikanth, Vishnuvardhan, and Ambareesh.

One of his enduring legacies was his commitment to democratic values. Chengappa earned admiration for being the first to vote in 32 elections, symbolising voter awareness and civic responsibility.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar, and other senior leaders have extended their condolences. Chengappa is survived by his wife Yashika and daughters Kavya and Kaithiya. The Kodagu Congress unit, along with the KPCC, mourns the loss of a leader whose influence transcended electoral politics and left a deep imprint on the region.

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