Karnataka Facts – Section 1: General Overview 

1. Karnataka is a state in the southwestern region of India.



2. It was formed on 1 November 1956 under the States Reorganisation Act.



3. Before 1973, Karnataka was known as Mysore State.
4. The state was renamed Karnataka in 1973 by Devaraj Urs government.
5. The capital city is Bengaluru (Bangalore).



6. Bengaluru is also the largest city of Karnataka.
7. Karnataka’s official language is Kannada.
8. Karnataka is the 8th most populous state in India.
9. It is the 7th largest state by area.
10. Karnataka covers 191,791 sq. km.
11. The state has a coastline of about 320 km along the Arabian Sea.
12. Karnataka shares borders with Goa, Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
13. The state emblem features a Gandaberunda (two-headed mythical bird).
14. The state anthem is Jaya Bharata Jananiya Tanujate.
15. The state tree is Sandalwood.
16. The state flower is Lotus.
17. The state bird is Indian Roller (Blue Jay).
18. The state animal is the Indian Elephant.
19. The state fruit is Jackfruit.
20. The highest point in Karnataka is Mullayyanagiri Peak (1930 m).



21. Karnataka is part of the Deccan Plateau.
22. Karnataka has 30 districts (recently 31 with Vijayanagara district).
23. Bengaluru Urban is the most populated district.
24. Kodagu (Coorg) is the least populated district.
25. Karnataka has 4 administrative divisions – Bengaluru, Mysuru, Belagavi, Kalaburagi.
26. Karnataka is called the “Silicon Valley of India”.
27. Karnataka is also called the “Land of Sandalwood”.
28. Kannada is one of the classical languages of India.
29. Karnataka celebrates Kannada Rajyotsava on 1st November every year.
30. Karnataka is home to 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Hampi & Pattadakal.



31. Karnataka has a bicameral legislature.
32. It has 224 Assembly seats and 75 Council seats.
33. Karnataka sends 28 MPs to Lok Sabha.
34. Karnataka sends 12 MPs to Rajya Sabha.
35. The first Chief Minister of Karnataka (Mysore State) was K. Chengalaraya Reddy.
36. The first Governor was Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar.
37. The current Chief Minister (2025) is Siddaramaiah.
38. The current Governor (2025) is Thawar Chand Gehlot.
39. The official state festival is Mysuru Dasara.
40. Karnataka’s literacy rate is around 75.6%.
41. Karnataka’s sex ratio is 973 females per 1000 males.
42. The largest river flowing through Karnataka is the Krishna River.
43. The Kaveri River is considered the most sacred river of Karnataka.
44. Karnataka has 5 major river basins – Krishna, Cauvery, Godavari, North Pennar, West Flowing rivers.
45. Jog Falls in Karnataka is one of the highest waterfalls in India.



46. Karnataka is the largest producer of coffee in India.
47. Karnataka is also the largest producer of silk in India.
48. Karnataka has a very high urban population – led by Bengaluru.
49. Karnataka is divided into coastal, malnad, and maidan regions geographically.
50. Karnataka is a biodiversity hotspot (part of Western Ghats).

Karnataka Facts – Section 2: Geography & Climate

51. Karnataka lies between 11°30' and 18°30' N latitude and 74°E and 78°30' E longitude.
52. The state is on the Deccan Plateau, sloping eastwards.
53. Karnataka’s terrain is broadly divided into Coastal Karnataka (Karavali), Western Ghats (Malnad), and the Plains (Maidan).
54. The Western Ghats (Sahyadri) run north–south along Karnataka’s western edge and are a major biodiversity hotspot.
55. The Eastern Ghats fringe parts of the eastern districts but are less continuous than the Western Ghats.
56. The state’s highest elevation is Mullayyanagiri (about 1,930 m) in Chikkamagaluru district.
57. Kudremukh (in Chikkamagaluru) is another prominent peak and was a mining and national park region.
58. Karnataka’s coastline stretches roughly 320 kilometres along the Arabian Sea.
59. Major coastal districts include Uttara Kannada, Udupi, and Dakshina Kannada.
60. The state has three major physiographic regions: coastal plains, Western Ghats, and the Deccan plateau.
61. Soil types in Karnataka include red sandy soil, black cotton soil, lateritic soil, and alluvial soil in river basins.
62. Black cotton soil (regur) is common in the northern and central plains and supports cotton and oilseeds.
63. Lateritic soils occur extensively in the Western Ghats and coastal uplands and support plantation crops.
64. The principal rivers originating or flowing through Karnataka include Kaveri (Cauvery), Krishna, Tungabhadra, Sharavathi, Seetha, Netravati, and Kali.
65. The Kaveri (Cauvery) originates in Kodagu (Coorg) and is a lifeline for southern Karnataka agriculture.
66. The Krishna flows along the northern/eastern parts and forms important irrigation systems (e.g., Almatti, Narayanpur projects).
67. The Tungabhadra is a major tributary of Krishna, formed by the Tunga and Bhadra rivers.
68. Sharavathi River forms the famous Jog Falls, one of India’s highest single-drop waterfalls.
69. Karnataka contains several major dams and reservoirs, e.g., Krishna (Almatti), Tungabhadra (Hampi region), Sharavathi (Linganamakki), and Kabini/KRS.
70. Kabini (Nagarhole) reservoir is a major wildlife and irrigation waterbody in south-central Karnataka.
71. Karnataka’s climate ranges from tropical monsoon on the coast to tropical savanna and semi-arid in the interior.
72. The southwest monsoon (June–September) supplies most of Karnataka’s annual rainfall.
73. The northeast monsoon (October–December) brings rain mainly to parts of southern and coastal Karnataka.
74. Annual rainfall varies widely — heavy (>3,000 mm) in some Western Ghats pockets, to <500 mm in interior rain-shadow areas.
75. The coastal belt and Western Ghats experience high humidity and dense evergreen and semi-evergreen forests.
76. The eastern and northern plains are generally drier and feature scrub, thorn and deciduous vegetation.
77. Karnataka is home to multiple river basins: Kaveri, Krishna, and west-flowing small river systems to the Arabian Sea.
78. Tropical evergreen forests occur in narrow strips of the Western Ghats; moist deciduous forests cover large parts of the Ghats.
79. Dry deciduous and thorn forests dominate parts of northern and eastern Karnataka.
80. Karnataka hosts several biodiversity reserves and protected areas, including national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
81. Major national parks: Kudremukh NP, Bannerghatta NP, Bandipur NP (partly in Karnataka), Nagarhole (Rajiv Gandhi NP).
82. Prominent tiger reserves include Bandipur, Nagarhole (BRT also close), and Anshi (Kali)-Dandeli.
83. Biodiversity hotspots in Karnataka include the Western Ghats and coastal forests with many endemic species.
84. Bird sanctuaries include Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary (near Mysuru) — famous for migratory and resident waterbirds.



85. Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary in Ballari district protects sloth bears and associated habitats.
86. Marine ecosystems along the Karnataka coast include estuaries, mangroves, and coral patches near islands.
87. Mangrove patches occur in sheltered estuaries along the coast, though not as extensive as in eastern India.
88. Coastal features: sandy beaches (e.g., Gokarna, Karwar), rocky headlands, estuaries and backwaters.
89. Kudremukh National Park is notable for its rolling hills, shola-grassland ecology and was listed among biodiversity-rich areas.
90. Soil erosion and shifting cultivation in hilly terrain are local environmental concerns, especially during heavy monsoons.
91. Groundwater variability is an issue: some plains have high groundwater levels, while parts of the interior face depletion.
92. Landslides occasionally occur in steep Western Ghats tracts during extreme monsoon events.
93. Karnataka contains areas of precambrian rock formations — the state is geologically ancient (Archean/Proterozoic shields).
94. Mineral deposits (iron ore, manganese, bauxite, gold in Kolar historically) are found in certain districts.
95. Kolar Gold Fields (KGF) were a major historic gold mining area (production has declined/ceased in recent decades).
96. Coastal upwelling in the Arabian Sea off Karnataka influences fisheries productivity seasonally.
97. Fisheries are important along the coast — both marine (fishing harbours) and inland (reservoir/river fisheries).
98. Climate change impacts observed include shifting rainfall patterns, occasional floods, and heatwave episodes in the plains.
99. Karnataka participates in watershed management, afforestation and Western Ghats conservation programs to protect ecology.
100. The state includes part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve/Western Ghats conservation landscape (sharing ecological linkages with Kerala/Tamil Nadu).

Karnataka Facts – Section 3: History & Formation

101. The region of Karnataka has been inhabited since prehistoric times — stone tools of early humans have been found in Hunsgi and Maski valleys.
102. Evidence of Neolithic culture is found in sites like Hallur and Brahmagiri.
103. The Indus Valley Civilization trade routes extended into Karnataka for gold, pearls, and spices.
104. The Mauryan Empire (c. 4th century BCE) ruled parts of Karnataka under Emperor Ashoka.
105. Ashokan edicts have been found in Karnataka (Maski, Nittur, Udegolam).
106. After the Mauryas, the Satavahanas controlled parts of northern Karnataka.
107. The Kadambas of Banavasi (4th century CE) were among the earliest native Kannada dynasties.
108. The Gangas of Talakad ruled southern Karnataka from around 350 CE.
109. The Chalukyas of Badami (6th–8th century CE) unified much of Deccan.
110. The Pattadakal group of temples was built under the Chalukyas and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
111. The Rashtrakutas of Manyakheta (8th–10th century CE) rose after Chalukyas.
112. Rashtrakutas promoted literature in Kannada and Sanskrit.
113. The Western Chalukyas of Kalyani (10th–12th century) succeeded Rashtrakutas.
114. The Hoysalas of Dwarasamudra (Halebidu) were famous for temple architecture (Belur, Halebidu).



115. The Hoysalas were patrons of Kannada literature and art.
116. Basavanna and the Veerashaiva movement (12th century) emerged in Karnataka.
117. The Kakatiyas and Seunas influenced parts of northern Karnataka.
118. In the 14th century, Vijayanagara Empire arose with its capital at Hampi.
119. Vijayanagara was founded by Harihara and Bukka (1336).
120. The Vijayanagara Empire resisted Islamic Sultanates and preserved Hindu traditions.
121. Krishnadevaraya (1509–1529) was the greatest ruler of Vijayanagara.
122. Vijayanagara was renowned for trade in horses, spices, and precious stones.
123. The Battle of Talikota (1565) led to the decline of Vijayanagara.
124. The ruins of Hampi are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
125. After Vijayanagara, Bijapur Sultanate (Adil Shahi dynasty) ruled much of north Karnataka.
126. The Gol Gumbaz at Bijapur is the world’s second-largest dome without support.



127. The Mughals briefly ruled parts of Karnataka in the 17th century.
128. The Wodeyars of Mysore became powerful from the 16th century onward.
129. Mysore state was a significant kingdom under the Wodeyars.
130. In the 18th century, Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan took control of Mysore.
131. Tipu Sultan was known as the Tiger of Mysore.
132. Tipu introduced modern military reforms and rocketry.
133. The Mysore Rockets influenced later European rocketry.
134. Tipu fought four Anglo-Mysore Wars against the British.
135. Tipu Sultan died in the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War (1799) at Srirangapatna.
136. After Tipu, the Wodeyars were restored as rulers under British suzerainty.
137. Mysore became a princely state under British India.
138. Mysore was praised as a “Model State” for progressive governance.
139. Under Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV (1902–1940), Mysore modernized education, industry, and infrastructure.
140. Mysore State was among the first to have hydroelectric power (Shivanasamudra, 1902).
141. The Diwan Sir M. Visvesvaraya played a key role in industrial and irrigation development.



142. Mysore contributed heavily to freedom movement, especially through Congress-led struggles.
143. After independence, Mysore acceded to the Indian Union in 1947.
144. In 1950, Mysore became a Part B state in the Indian Constitution.
145. On 1 November 1956, the States Reorganisation Act merged Kannada-speaking regions into Mysore State.
146. These included parts of Bombay Presidency, Hyderabad, Madras Presidency, and Coorg.
147. Coorg (Kodagu) was merged as a district into Mysore State in 1956.
148. In 1973, Mysore State was officially renamed Karnataka.
149. The renaming reflected the inclusion of all Kannada-speaking regions, not just Mysore.
150. Karnataka celebrates Rajyotsava Day (State Formation Day) every year on 1 November.

Karnataka Facts – Section 4: Government & Politics

151. Karnataka has a bicameral legislature – one of only a few Indian states with two houses.
152. The two houses are the Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) and the Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad).
153. The Karnataka Legislative Assembly has 224 elected members.



154. The Legislative Council has 75 members (some elected, some nominated).
155. The Governor of Karnataka is the constitutional head of the state.
156. The Chief Minister is the head of the government and holds executive power.
157. The Governor is appointed by the President of India.
158. The Chief Minister is appointed by the Governor, usually the leader of the majority party.
159. Karnataka sends 28 representatives to the Lok Sabha.
160. Karnataka sends 12 members to the Rajya Sabha.
161. The High Court of Karnataka is located in Bengaluru.
162. The High Court also has benches in Dharwad and Kalaburagi.
163. The Karnataka High Court was originally established at Mysore in 1884.
164. The Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru houses the state legislature and secretariat.
165. The Vidhana Soudha was built in 1956, symbolizing Karnataka’s post-independence progress.
166. The Attara Kacheri (opposite Vidhana Soudha) houses the High Court.
167. The current Chief Minister (2025) is Siddaramaiah (INC).
168. The current Governor (2025) is Thawar Chand Gehlot.
169. The Deputy CM post has existed intermittently, depending on political arrangements.
170. The Karnataka Legislative Assembly term is 5 years unless dissolved earlier.
171. The Legislative Council is a permanent body, with one-third members retiring every 2 years.
172. The Council members are chosen by MLAs, graduates, teachers, local bodies, and nominations.
173. The Karnataka Vidhan Sabha meets in Bengaluru (Vidhana Soudha), but sometimes in Belagavi (Suvarna Vidhana Soudha).
174. The Suvarna Vidhana Soudha was inaugurated in 2012 at Belagavi to address regional demands.
175. Karnataka has been ruled by the Congress, Janata Dal, and BJP at different times.
176. K. Chengalaraya Reddy was the first Chief Minister of Mysore State (1947).



177. D. Devaraj Urs (1972–1980) is remembered for progressive land reforms.
178. Ramakrishna Hegde (1983–1989) was the first non-Congress CM of Karnataka.
179. S. M. Krishna (1999–2004) modernized Bengaluru as a global IT hub.
180. B. S. Yediyurappa was the first BJP Chief Minister of Karnataka (2008).
181. Karnataka was the first southern state where BJP formed a government.
182. H. D. Deve Gowda, a former CM of Karnataka, also became the Prime Minister of India (1996–1997).
183. Political power in Karnataka often alternates between Congress and BJP (with JDS as a regional player).
184. Belagavi is politically sensitive due to the Maharashtra–Karnataka border dispute.
185. Karnataka politics is often influenced by caste equations, especially Lingayats, Vokkaligas, and Dalits.
186. The Lingayat community has historically been a major support base in Karnataka politics.
187. The Vokkaliga community is politically influential in southern Karnataka.
188. Karnataka has reserved constituencies for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
189. The Karnataka State Election Commission oversees local body elections.
190. Karnataka has Gram Panchayats, Taluk Panchayats, and Zilla Panchayats under the Panchayati Raj system.
191. The Urban Local Bodies include Municipal Corporations, Councils, and Town Panchayats.
192. The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) governs Bengaluru.



193. Bengaluru is represented by 28 Assembly constituencies in the state.
194. Karnataka has seen coalition governments frequently, especially between Congress and JDS.
195. The anti-defection law has played a role in Karnataka politics (notably in 2019 crisis).
196. Karnataka is divided into 4 Revenue Divisions – Bengaluru, Mysuru, Belagavi, Kalaburagi.
197. The state has 49 sub-divisions, 176 taluks, and thousands of villages.
198. Administrative control is exercised by the Chief Secretary and IAS officers at various levels.
199. Law and order is overseen by the Director General of Police (DGP).
200. Karnataka State Police includes specialized wings like CID, Crime Branch, Forest Cell, Cybercrime units.

Karnataka Facts – Section 5: Demographics & Society

201. Karnataka’s population as per the 2011 Census was 61,095,297 (61.1 million).
202. By 2025, Karnataka’s population is estimated at around 70–72 million.
203. Karnataka is the 8th most populous state in India.
204. The population density is about 320 persons per sq. km.
205. The sex ratio is 973 females per 1000 males (close to the national average).
206. The literacy rate is 75.6% (2011 Census).
207. Male literacy is higher (~82%), while female literacy is lower (~68%).
208. The state has a high youth population, with over 50% below 30 years.
209. About 62% of the population lives in rural areas.
210. Around 38% of the population is urban, making Karnataka one of India’s more urbanized states.
211. Bengaluru Urban is the most urbanized and most populous district.
212. Kodagu (Coorg) has one of the smallest populations among districts.
213. Karnataka has a large Scheduled Caste (SC) population (~17%).
214. The Scheduled Tribe (ST) population is around 7%.
215. Major ST communities include Soliga, Jenukuruba, Koraga, and Siddhi tribes.
216. The Siddi community of Karnataka traces African ancestry.
217. The Lingayat community forms one of the largest groups in Karnataka.
218. The Vokkaliga community is dominant in the southern region.
219. Dalits, Kurubas, and various backward classes also form significant social groups.
220. Karnataka is known for its multi-lingual population.
221. Kannada is spoken by about 66% of the population.
222. Urdu is the second most spoken language (~10%).
223. Telugu is widely spoken in northern and eastern districts.
224. Tamil is spoken in Bengaluru and border districts.
225. Marathi is spoken in northern Karnataka near Maharashtra.
226. Tulu is spoken in coastal districts (Dakshina Kannada, Udupi).
227. Konkani is spoken in coastal and Uttara Kannada districts.
228. Kodava (Coorgi) is spoken in Kodagu district.
229. English is widely used in education, business, and IT sectors.
230. Kannada is a classical language of India (declared in 2008).
231. Karnataka has a strong tradition of Kannada literature, dating back to the 9th century.
232. Pampa, Ranna, and Ponna are known as the "Three Gems of Kannada Literature".
233. Kuvempu was a Jnanpith Award-winning poet and author of the state anthem.
234. U. R. Ananthamurthy was another Jnanpith laureate from Karnataka.
235. Karnataka has produced 8 Jnanpith Award winners in Kannada literature.
236. Bengaluru is one of India’s fastest-growing metropolitan cities.
237. Bengaluru has a cosmopolitan population with migrants from across India.
238. Karnataka’s human development index (HDI) is among the higher in India (~0.69).
239. The state has made progress in healthcare and education, though disparities remain.
240. Life expectancy in Karnataka is around 68–70 years.
241. Infant mortality rate (IMR) is about 24 per 1000 live births.
242. Karnataka has achieved significant reduction in maternal mortality rate (MMR).
243. Public health institutions include primary health centres, taluk hospitals, and medical colleges.
244. Karnataka has major super-specialty hospitals in Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Hubballi.
245. Karnataka has significant urban-rural disparities in development.
246. Northern Karnataka (Hyderabad-Karnataka region) is less developed compared to southern districts.
247. The state has 6 official regions: Coastal, Malnad, Southern, Central, Hyderabad-Karnataka, Mumbai-Karnataka.
248. Karnataka has seen strong women’s participation in self-help groups (SHGs).
249. Karnataka runs nutrition and welfare schemes such as Anna Bhagya, Ksheera Bhagya, and Bhagyalakshmi.



250. The state has a large diaspora, especially in Middle East, USA, and Europe, contributing remittances.

Karnataka Facts – Section 6: Economy & Industries

251. Karnataka has the 4th largest economy among Indian states (by GSDP).
252. Its Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) was over ₹20 lakh crore (2023–24).
253. The state contributes about 8–9% of India’s GDP.
254. Karnataka is known as the “Silicon Valley of India” due to its IT industry.
255. Bengaluru is the leading IT hub of India, housing Infosys, Wipro, and thousands of startups.
256. Karnataka is also called the Startup Capital of India.
257. The state has more than 15,000 registered startups (as of 2023).
258. Electronics City (E-City) in Bengaluru is one of the largest IT parks in India.
259. The state is the largest exporter of IT services in India.
260. Karnataka is also a major hub for biotechnology.
261. More than 60% of India’s biotech companies are based in Bengaluru.
262. Karnataka is the largest coffee producer in India (~70% of national output).
263. Major coffee-growing districts are Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru, Hassan.
264. The state is a major producer of silk and is called the Silk State of India.
265. Ramanagara district is known as the Silk City of Karnataka.
266. Karnataka is famous for its sandalwood industry.
267. Mysore is called the Sandalwood City.
268. Karnataka has rich mineral resources, especially iron ore.
269. The Bellary-Hospet region is known for iron ore mining.
270. Karnataka also produces manganese, limestone, and granite.
271. The state is a leader in renewable energy production.
272. It generates large amounts of solar and wind energy.
273. Karnataka has set up the world’s largest solar power park in Pavagada (Tumakuru district).



274. The state has several hydropower projects, including Shivanasamudra and Linganamakki.
275. Karnataka contributes significantly to India’s aerospace and defense industry.
276. HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) is headquartered in Bengaluru.
277. ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) is headquartered in Bengaluru.
278. Bengaluru is also home to DRDO labs and aerospace research facilities.
279. Karnataka has major public sector industries in steel, machinery, and chemicals.
280. Visvesvaraya Iron and Steel Plant (Bhadravati) is one of the oldest steel plants in India.
281. Mysore Lamps, Mysore Paper Mills, and Karnataka Soaps & Detergents Ltd are notable industries.
282. Karnataka Soaps produces the famous Mysore Sandal Soap.
283. The Coir industry is prominent in coastal Karnataka.
284. The fisheries sector is important along the coast (Mangaluru, Karwar, Udupi).
285. Karnataka is among the top producers of areca nut (betel nut).
286. The state is also a major producer of sugarcane.
287. Other important crops include paddy, ragi, jowar, maize, cotton, sunflower, groundnut.
288. Karnataka is the largest producer of ragi (finger millet) in India.
289. The Horticulture sector is highly developed, producing mango, grapes, bananas.
290. Wine production is growing in Karnataka (notably in Nandi Hills region).
291. Karnataka is the second largest milk producer in India.
292. The Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) markets the popular Nandini brand.
293. Bengaluru is home to the National Dairy Research Institute (Southern Campus).
294. Karnataka has large industrial clusters in Peenya, Bidadi, Hubballi, Dharwad, Mysuru.
295. Toyota Kirloskar Motor has a major plant in Bidadi (near Bengaluru).
296. The state is also known for its textile industry, especially in Davanagere and Bellary.
297. Bellary is famous for denim jeans production.
298. Karnataka has Special Economic Zones (SEZs) for IT, biotech, textiles, and aerospace.
299. The service sector contributes the largest share to Karnataka’s GDP (~60%).
300. Karnataka has a strong banking and finance sector, with Canara Bank, Syndicate Bank, and Vijaya Bank originating here.

Karnataka Facts – Section 7: Culture, Arts & Literature

301. Karnataka has a rich cultural heritage blending ancient, medieval, and modern traditions.
302. Kannada is one of the six classical languages of India (declared in 2008).
303. The state has produced 8 Jnanpith Award winners in Kannada literature — the highest for any Indian language.
304. The state anthem is Jaya Bharata Jananiya Tanujate, written by Kuvempu.
305. Kuvempu (K. V. Puttappa), Jnanpith laureate, is regarded as the Rashtrakavi (national poet) of Karnataka.



306. Pampa, Ranna, and Ponna are known as the Three Gems of Kannada Literature from the 10th century.
307. Vachana literature, led by Basavanna, Akka Mahadevi, and Allama Prabhu, shaped Kannada Bhakti poetry.
308. D. R. Bendre, another Jnanpith awardee, is known as Varakavi (poet of grace).
309. Shivaram Karanth (Jnanpith laureate) was a novelist, dramatist, and environmentalist.
310. Masti Venkatesha Iyengar was the first Kannada writer to win the Jnanpith Award (1983).
311. U. R. Ananthamurthy, known for his novel Samskara, also won the Jnanpith.
312. Girish Karnad, playwright and actor, contributed richly to modern Indian theatre.
313. Chandrashekhara Kambara (Jnanpith awardee) is celebrated for plays rooted in folk traditions.
314. Poetry, epics, vachanas, and dramas form the foundation of Kannada literature.
315. Karnataka celebrates Kannada Rajyotsava on 1 November, honoring Kannada identity.
316. The Yakshagana is a traditional dance-drama of coastal Karnataka.
317. Yakshagana combines dance, music, dialogue, costumes, and masks.
318. The Dollu Kunitha is a drum-based dance of the Kuruba community.
319. Veeragase is a vigorous dance form depicting tales of Lord Shiva.
320. Puja Kunitha is performed during festivals with decorated wooden structures.
321. Kamsale Dance is linked to the worship of Lord Mahadeshwara.
322. Somana Kunitha is a ritual dance involving mask-wearing performers.
323. Karaga Festival in Bengaluru is one of the oldest traditional festivals of the city.
324. The Mysuru Dasara is the state’s most famous cultural festival.



325. Mysuru Dasara is celebrated with royal processions, cultural shows, and fairs.
326. The Jamboo Savari procession during Dasara features the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari on an elephant.
327. Hampi Utsav showcases Karnataka’s heritage with music, dance, and art performances.
328. Kambala is the famous buffalo race of coastal Karnataka.
329. Bootha Kola (spirit worship) is practiced in Tulunadu.
330. Karnataka’s folk arts include Bayalata (open-air theatre) and Harikathe (storytelling with music).
331. Gamaka is a unique art of narrating classical Kannada poetry with melody.
332. Mysore style of painting is a traditional South Indian painting form.
333. Mysore paintings are known for gilded gold work and fine detailing.
334. Karnataka is also famous for Ganjifa playing card paintings.
335. Channapatna toys, made of wood and lacquer, are world-renowned handicrafts.
336. Bidriware, originating in Bidar, is a craft of inlaid metalwork with silver designs.
337. Ilkal sarees from north Karnataka are distinctive handloom textiles.
338. Mysore silk sarees are famous worldwide for their quality and elegance.
339. Karnataka is a hub for Carnatic classical music, producing great musicians.
340. Purandara Dasa, hailed as the Father of Carnatic Music, was from Karnataka.



341. Kanaka Dasa, another saint-poet, composed devotional music in Kannada.
342. Bhavageete is a modern poetic and musical tradition of Karnataka.
343. Karnataka has contributed to Hindustani classical music, especially from Dharwad.
344. Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, Bharat Ratna awardee, hailed from Dharwad.
345. Dharwad is called the “cradle of Hindustani music in South India.”
346. The state has produced legends like Gangubai Hangal, Mallikarjun Mansur, Basavaraj Rajguru.
347. Karnataka’s film industry is popularly known as Sandalwood.
348. Rajkumar, Kannada cinema legend, is revered as a cultural icon.
349. Vishnuvardhan, Shankar Nag, Puneeth Rajkumar, and Yash are other icons of Kannada cinema.
350. The Kannada film “KGF” series (2018, 2022) gained global recognition for Sandalwood cinema.

Karnataka Facts – Section 8: Heritage, Architecture & Monuments

351. Karnataka has 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Hampi and Pattadakal.
352. Hampi, once capital of Vijayanagara Empire, has vast ruins spread across 4,000 hectares.
353. The Virupaksha Temple at Hampi is still an active place of worship.
354. The Vittala Temple in Hampi is famous for its stone chariot and musical pillars.
355. Hazara Rama Temple in Hampi has intricate Ramayana carvings.
356. The Lotus Mahal at Hampi showcases Indo-Islamic architecture.
357. Pattadakal, a UNESCO site, has Chalukyan temples from the 7th–8th century.
358. The Virupaksha Temple at Pattadakal is still in use today.
359. The Pattadakal complex includes both Nagara and Dravidian-style temples.
360. Aihole, near Pattadakal, is called the “Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture.”
361. Aihole has over 120 stone temples from the Chalukya period.
362. The Durga Temple at Aihole is one of the most iconic early temples.
363. Badami Caves are rock-cut temples built by the Chalukyas.
364. Badami has caves dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, Jainism, and Buddhism.
365. The Banashankari Temple at Badami is an important pilgrimage site.
366. The Hoysalas built stunning temples at Belur and Halebidu.
367. The Chennakesava Temple, Belur, is known for intricate sculptures.
368. The Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu, is famous for its elaborate carvings.
369. Soapstone was widely used in Hoysala temples for detailed sculpture work.
370. The Kedareshwara and Veera Narayana temples also belong to the Hoysala tradition.
371. Karnataka is home to many Jain monuments.
372. The Gomateshwara statue at Shravanabelagola is the world’s tallest monolithic stone statue (57 ft).
373. The Gomateshwara statue was built in 981 CE by Chamundaraya, a minister of the Ganga dynasty.
374. The Mahamastakabhisheka festival (every 12 years) anoints the Gomateshwara with milk, ghee, and saffron.
375. Karnataka has many forts, including Chitradurga, Bidar, Bellary, and Raichur forts.
376. Chitradurga Fort is known as the “Fort of Seven Circles.”
377. The Onake Obavva legend is linked with Chitradurga Fort.
378. Bidar Fort is a massive fort with Persian-influenced architecture.
379. Gol Gumbaz, Bijapur, houses the tomb of Sultan Mohammed Adil Shah.
380. Gol Gumbaz has a whispering gallery, where even the faintest sound echoes.
381. The dome of Gol Gumbaz is the second largest unsupported dome in the world.
382. The Ibrahim Rauza in Bijapur is called the “Taj Mahal of the Deccan.”
383. The Asar Mahal in Bijapur was built as a hall of justice.
384. The Mysore Palace (Amba Vilas Palace) is one of the most visited monuments in India.
385. Mysore Palace is illuminated with over 97,000 bulbs during Dasara.
386. The palace was designed by British architect Henry Irwin in Indo-Saracenic style.
387. Mysore also has the Jaganmohan Palace, housing an art gallery.
388. Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace in Bengaluru is made of teakwood.
389. The Bangalore Fort was originally built by Kempe Gowda, founder of Bengaluru.
390. Kempe Gowda also built watchtowers marking the boundaries of old Bengaluru.
391. The Lalbagh Botanical Garden in Bengaluru was commissioned by Hyder Ali.
392. Lalbagh has a famous glasshouse modeled on London’s Crystal Palace.
393. The Bangalore Palace was inspired by England’s Windsor Castle.
394. The Somnathpur Temple (Keshava Temple) is another Hoysala architectural gem.
395. The Melukote Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple is an important Vaishnava site.
396. Sringeri Sharada Peetham, established by Adi Shankaracharya, is a major religious and cultural center.
397. The Murudeshwar Temple has the world’s second tallest Shiva statue.
398. The Gokarna Mahabaleshwar Temple is an ancient pilgrimage center.
399. Nanjangud Temple near Mysuru is called the Dakshina Kashi.
400. Karnataka’s architecture ranges from Chalukyan and Hoysala to Vijayanagara, Islamic, and modern styles.

Karnataka Facts – Section 9: Geography, Nature & Environment

401. Karnataka is India’s 7th largest state by area – 191,791 sq. km.
402. It lies in the south-western part of India, bordered by 6 states.
403. Neighbors: Maharashtra (north), Goa (northwest), Kerala (southwest), Tamil Nadu (southeast), Andhra Pradesh (east), Telangana (northeast).
404. The Arabian Sea forms the western boundary of Karnataka.
405. Karnataka has three major geographical regions – Coastal Karnataka, Malnad (Western Ghats), and the Bayaluseeme (plains).
406. The Western Ghats (Sahyadri Hills) run parallel to the coast.



407. The highest peak in Karnataka is Mullayanagiri (1,930 m) in Chikkamagaluru.
408. Other notable peaks: Kudremukh, Baba Budangiri, Tadiandamol, Pushpagiri.
409. Kudremukh means “horse-face” mountain due to its shape.
410. Karnataka’s coastline is about 320 km long.
411. Major coastal cities include Mangaluru, Karwar, Udupi, Bhatkal, Honnavar.
412. The coastal region is also called Karavali.
413. Karnataka has major rivers: Krishna, Kaveri, Tungabhadra, Sharavathi, Netravati, Hemavathi.
414. The Krishna River flows through north Karnataka.
415. The Kaveri River is the lifeline of southern Karnataka.
416. Tungabhadra River has the famous Tungabhadra Dam at Hospet.
417. The Sharavathi River creates the famous Jog Falls.
418. Jog Falls is India’s second-highest plunge waterfall (253 m).
419. Other waterfalls: Abbey Falls, Shivanasamudra, Magod Falls, Sathodi Falls, Gokak Falls.
420. Shivanasamudra Falls is where Asia’s first hydroelectric plant was established (1902).
421. Karnataka has five national parks: Bandipur, Nagarahole, Bannerghatta, Kudremukh, Anshi (Kali).
422. Bandipur and Nagarahole are part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
423. Bannerghatta National Park is near Bengaluru, famous for its zoo and safari.
424. Kudremukh National Park is a biodiversity hotspot in the Western Ghats.
425. Anshi National Park (Kali Tiger Reserve) is rich in wildlife like black panthers.
426. Karnataka has 26 wildlife sanctuaries.
427. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is known for hornbills and river rafting.
428. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is home to tigers and elephants.
429. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary near Mysuru is a haven for migratory birds.
430. Gudavi Bird Sanctuary in Shivamogga attracts water birds.
431. Karnataka is home to the Lion-tailed Macaque, an endangered primate found in the Western Ghats.
432. The state is also home to gaurs (Indian bison), elephants, tigers, leopards, sloth bears.
433. Karnataka has a healthy tiger population, especially in Bandipur and Nagarahole.
434. Project Tiger reserves in Karnataka include Bandipur, Bhadra, Nagarahole, Kali.
435. The Kaveri Wildlife Sanctuary is known for mahseer fish and crocodiles.
436. Karnataka has one of India’s largest elephant populations.
437. The state animal of Karnataka is the Indian Elephant.
438. The state bird is the Indian Roller.
439. The state flower is the Lotus.
440. The state tree is Sandalwood (Santalum album).
441. Karnataka is the only state with large sandalwood reserves in India.
442. The Western Ghats in Karnataka are a UNESCO World Heritage Site (natural).
443. Karnataka’s climate varies from tropical monsoon on the coast to semi-arid in the north.
444. Average annual rainfall is around 1,200 mm, but varies greatly by region.
445. The Malnad region receives heavy rainfall (over 3,000 mm).
446. Northern districts like Bijapur and Raichur are semi-arid with low rainfall.
447. Coastal Karnataka has a humid tropical climate.
448. The hottest months are April–May, with temperatures above 40°C in north Karnataka.
449. The coolest months are December–January, with hill stations like Coorg and Chikkamagaluru having pleasant weather.
450. Karnataka’s natural beauty includes beaches, forests, mountains, waterfalls, and wildlife, making it a top eco-tourism destination.

Karnataka Facts – Section 10: Education, Science, Sports & Miscellaneous

451. Karnataka has a literacy rate of 75.6% (2011 Census).
452. Bengaluru is called the “Education Hub of South India.”
453. The state has over 60 universities.
454. Bangalore University is one of the oldest in South India (established in 1964).
455. University of Mysore was founded in 1916 – the first university in Karnataka.
456. Mysore University was also the first in India outside British-administered provinces.
457. Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU) is one of the largest technical universities in India.
458. VTU affiliates over 200 engineering colleges in Karnataka.
459. Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru is India’s premier research institute.
460. IISc was founded in 1909 by Jamsetji Tata and the Maharaja of Mysore.
461. Karnataka is home to Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM-B).
462. National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru is India’s first law university.
463. Karnataka also has NIT Surathkal, a top engineering institute.
464. The state has several medical colleges, including Bangalore Medical College, Mysore Medical College.
465. Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) in Udupi is a globally known private university.
466. Christ University and Jain University are prominent private institutions.
467. Karnataka pioneered public libraries – the State Central Library in Bengaluru is housed in Cubbon Park.
468. Kannada Sahitya Parishat promotes Kannada literature and culture.
469. Karnataka hosts the Bangalore Literature Festival annually.



470. The state has numerous research centers in aerospace, biotechnology, and agriculture.
471. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is headquartered in Bengaluru.
472. ISRO launched India’s first satellite Aryabhata (1975) from Karnataka’s facility.
473. The Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission) was directed from ISRO Bengaluru.
474. The Chandrayaan missions were also developed here.
475. The DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) has labs in Karnataka.
476. Karnataka is home to the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL).
477. HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) manufactures aircraft in Bengaluru.
478. The Infosys Foundation and Wipro Foundation fund major educational and research projects.
479. Karnataka was the birthplace of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, Bharat Ratna engineer-statesman.
480. Engineer’s Day in India (September 15) is celebrated in his honor.
481. Sports are an important part of Karnataka’s culture.
482. The state sport is kabaddi.
483. Karnataka has produced many famous cricketers.
484. Anil Kumble, legendary leg-spinner, is from Bengaluru.
485. Rahul Dravid, “The Wall” of Indian cricket, hails from Karnataka.
486. Javagal Srinath, India’s pace spearhead in the 1990s, is from Karnataka.
487. Venkatesh Prasad, another pace bowler, is from Karnataka.
488. KL Rahul, a current Indian cricketer, is from Mangaluru.
489. Mayank Agarwal, Devdutt Padikkal, Karun Nair are also from Karnataka.
490. Karnataka has a successful Ranji Trophy cricket team, winning multiple titles.
491. The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru is an international cricket venue.
492. The stadium hosts matches for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL.
493. Prakash Padukone, legendary badminton player, hails from Bengaluru.
494. P. V. Sindhu’s coach, Vimal Kumar, runs a badminton academy in Bengaluru.
495. Karnataka has hosted ATP tennis tournaments in Bengaluru.
496. The state has also produced notable athletes, swimmers, and hockey players.
497. Bengaluru FC is a top football club in the Indian Super League.
498. Karnataka is also famous for producing theatre artists, musicians, and film stars.
499. The state animal, bird, flower, and tree are prominently displayed during Rajyotsava celebrations.
500. Karnataka is known as the “One State, Many Worlds”, reflecting its diversity in history, culture, nature, and innovation.