Ballari: Karnataka Minister for Health and Family Welfare U.T. Khader paid floral tributes to the statue of legendary wrestler and Kannada movement martyr Ranjan Saab Pinjar in Ballari, remembering his supreme sacrifice for the Kannada cause.
Ranjan Saab Pinjar, who was not only a renowned wrestler but also a committed Kannada activist, played a significant role in the movement to retain Ballari within Karnataka. As the Chief Organizer of the Ballari District Karnataka Action Committee, he travelled across villages, mobilized public support, and collected more than one lakh signatures demanding that Ballari remain a part of Karnataka. He also faced imprisonment for his participation in the movement.
On October 1, 1953, celebrations were scheduled to mark Ballari’s merger with the then Mysore State. However, on the previous night, while guarding the venue of the historic programme, Ranjan Saab Pinjar was attacked with acid by miscreants. He suffered severe injuries and passed away on October 2, 1953.
Ranjan Saab’s sacrifice on the historic occasion of Karnataka’s unification remains a memorable chapter in the state’s history. His life stands as a symbol that love and dedication towards Kannada language and Karnataka go beyond caste and religion.
During the Kannada Rajyotsava month, Minister U.T. Khader recalled the contributions of Ranjan Saab Pinjar and paid homage to the brave Kannada warrior, stating that the ideals and sacrifices of such personalities will continue to inspire future generations.
Ballari City MLA Nara Bharat Reddy, party leaders, and activists of various pro-Kannada organizations were present on the occasion and offered floral tributes to the martyr.
