Born into the Jenu Kuruba tribe of Karnataka's Mysuru district, Shri Somanna’s journey is one of resilience, leadership, and quiet revolution. Orphaned at the age of two and forced into bonded labour as a child, Somanna broke free in 1978 following the abolition of bonded labour in Karnataka and never looked back.

From joining the Dalit movement to founding the Budakattu Krishikara Sangha (BKS), he dedicated his life to organising, empowering, and advocating for tribal communities across H.D. Kote, Saragur, and beyond.

In this episode of Padma Pride, we journey through Somanna’s remarkable efforts—whether it was resisting luxury development in national parks, fighting for forest rights under PESA and FRA, or facilitating land and rehabilitation for thousands of displaced tribal families. His activism has impacted over 4,000 families, securing community forest rights, housing, roads, ration access, pensions, and more.

About Padma Pride

Padma Pride is an inspiring audio series by The Good Sight and Rise Against Hunger India, celebrating Padma Awardees and their extraordinary impact. Every Sunday, webring you the story of a changemaker shaping India’s future. (Narration: Shalini Singh, The Good Sight).

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