Bidar, January 17, 2026 — Bheemanna Khandre, a towering figure in Karnataka’s political and public life and a former state minister, passed away late on Friday at the age of 102 due to age-related health complications. His family confirmed the news, bringing to an end a remarkable life that spanned more than a century and several defining phases of India’s political history.

Khandre, a freedom fighter and senior Congress leader, was widely respected across party lines, particularly in the Kalyana Karnataka (formerly Hyderabad-Karnataka) region, where his influence on politics, cooperative movements, and rural development was profound. His son, Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre, shared details of his father’s passing, stating that the veteran leader had been unwell for the past 10 to 12 days.

Prolonged Illness Before Passing

According to the family, Bheemanna Khandre had been suffering from age-related ailments, including breathing difficulties. He was initially admitted to a private hospital in Bidar for treatment. As his condition stabilised, he was shifted back to his residence in Bhalki, where he continued to receive medical care under close supervision.

Despite his advanced age, Khandre remained mentally alert for much of his later years and continued to be a source of guidance and inspiration for younger political leaders, particularly within the Congress party. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from political leaders, social activists, and citizens across Karnataka.

A Life Rooted in the Freedom Movement

Born in 1923, Bheemanna Khandre came of age during India’s struggle for Independence. He actively participated in the freedom movement, an experience that shaped his lifelong commitment to public service, social justice, and democratic values. Those who knew him often described him as a disciplined Gandhian at heart, deeply influenced by the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi.

After Independence, like many freedom fighters, Khandre transitioned into public life with the aim of nation-building at the grassroots level. His early years in politics were marked by a focus on local governance, rural empowerment, and institution-building.

Early Political Journey

Trained as a lawyer, Khandre brought legal acumen and administrative clarity to his political work. In 1953, he achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first elected president of the Bhalki Municipality. His tenure was remembered for strengthening civic administration and improving basic amenities in the town.

His rise in state politics began in earnest in 1962, when he was elected to the Karnataka Legislative Assembly. This marked the start of a long and influential legislative career. Over the decades, Khandre served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) on four occasions and was also a member of the Karnataka Legislative Council twice.

Colleagues from across the political spectrum often acknowledged his deep understanding of legislative procedures and his ability to articulate regional issues with clarity and conviction.

Ministerial Role and State-Level Influence

Bheemanna Khandre served as Karnataka’s transport minister in the cabinet led by former chief minister Veerappa Moily. During his tenure, he focused on improving connectivity, especially in backward and rural regions of the state, recognising transportation as a key driver of economic and social development.

As a prominent leader of the Veerashaiva Lingayat community, Khandre also played an important role in representing community concerns while maintaining a broader, inclusive political outlook. He was known for advocating harmony and cooperation among different social groups.

Champion of the Cooperative Movement

One of Khandre’s most enduring legacies lies in his contribution to the cooperative sector, particularly in northern Karnataka. He strongly believed that cooperatives could empower farmers, reduce economic inequality, and foster collective growth.

He was the founding president of the Bidar Cooperative Sugar Factory at Hallikheda and the Mahatma Gandhi Sugar Factory at Hunji. These institutions not only provided livelihood opportunities to thousands of farmers but also played a crucial role in stabilising the rural economy of the region.

Under his leadership, the cooperative sugar factories became models of farmer participation and community ownership, reinforcing his reputation as a leader who translated ideals into practical, lasting institutions.

Contributions to Irrigation and Agriculture

Recognising that agriculture was the backbone of the Kalyana Karnataka region, Khandre actively supported irrigation projects that would provide long-term benefits to farmers. He was instrumental in the development of projects such as the Naranja and Karanja irrigation schemes.

These projects helped improve water availability, increase crop productivity, and reduce farmers’ dependence on erratic rainfall. Many agricultural families in the region credit these initiatives for improving their economic stability over the years.

A Respected Elder Statesman

Even after stepping back from active politics, Bheemanna Khandre continued to be regarded as an elder statesman. His advice was often sought on matters related to governance, party organisation, and regional development. He remained closely connected to the Congress party, watching its evolution over decades while staying rooted in its foundational values.

His son, Eshwar Khandre, who currently serves as Karnataka’s Forest Minister, has often acknowledged his father’s influence on his own political career, describing him as a mentor who emphasised integrity, humility, and service.

Family and Legacy

Bheemanna Khandre is survived by two sons, including Eshwar Khandre, and four daughters. The family said funeral rites would be conducted in Bhalki with full honours, and details would be shared after consultations with party leaders and well-wishers.

Political leaders across Karnataka expressed condolences, describing Khandre as a symbol of principled politics and dedication to public welfare. Many noted that his passing marks the end of an era when freedom fighters played a central role in shaping post-Independence governance.

End of a Century-Long Journey

Living to 102, Bheemanna Khandre witnessed colonial rule, the freedom struggle, the formation of Karnataka state, and decades of democratic evolution. His life story mirrors the journey of modern India — from struggle and hope to institution-building and democratic consolidation.

As Karnataka mourns his passing, Khandre will be remembered not just as a former minister or legislator, but as a freedom fighter, institution-builder, and tireless advocate for rural and cooperative development. His legacy continues through the institutions he helped build and the generations of leaders he inspired.