Descendants of Bengaluru Founder Hiriya Kempegowda Lead Self-Reliant Lives in Magadi

In the quiet village of Hulikal, situated within the Kundur hobli of the Magadi taluk, the descendants of Nadaprabhu Hiriya Kempegowda, the visionary founder of Bengaluru, maintain a modest and self-reliant existence. Far from the political spotlight, members of this historic lineage are deeply rooted in agricultural pursuits, preserving a legacy that spans generations in the Bengaluru South district.

The local community refers to these families as the Doregala Mane, translating to the King’s House, reflecting the deep-seated respect they hold for their ancestry. Among these descendants is H.V. Nagabhushan, popularly known as Rajanna, who is noted for his distinct appearance. He maintains a handlebar mustache that locals often compare to the iconic images of his ancestors, including Hiriya Kempegowda and Chikkappaiah.

Agricultural Life and Community Standing

Rajanna embodies the quiet, industrious nature of his family. He explained that his daily life is entirely devoted to farming, a departure from the high-profile roles one might expect from the descendants of a city founder. Over time, he transitioned from paddy cultivation—which faced challenges from birds—to growing areca nut. To sustain his family, he also manages tractor rentals and contributes 25 liters of milk daily to the local dairy.

The enduring prestige of the Hiriya Kempegowda family remains significant in the region. According to Rajanna, their ancestors were renowned for their generosity toward all people, regardless of caste or religion. This historical goodwill persists today; during annual village fairs, the residents of the surrounding areas continue to consult with the descendants residing at Hulikal, showing them profound respect and equal treatment.

Legacy Amidst Quiet Isolation

Despite their recognized lineage, the descendants of Hiriya Kempegowda have largely remained outside of active politics. While individuals such as former minister H.M. Revanna and former MLA A. Manju reportedly treat the family members with high regard, the family has not leveraged this standing for higher political office. Family members like Girish, Satish, Ravi Kumar, and Balakrishna—an engineering graduate working in Bengaluru—continue to focus on agriculture and their respective careers.

However, observers like T. Kumaraswamy, a resident of Thigarapalya, have noted that the Hiriya Kempegowda descendants seem to lack formal recognition from successive governments. While they maintain their self-reliant, humble lifestyle in Hulikal, there is a sentiment that their historical significance warrants greater acknowledgment beyond their local community. The family members remain scattered across neighboring areas, including Sidlaghatta and Chikkaballapura, living their lives with dignity while upholding the memory of their notable ancestor.