Karnataka boasts a rich history spanning over 2,000 years, shaped by indigenous dynasties such as the Kadambas (who established one of the earliest Kannada kingdoms) and the Gangas (known for their patronage of Jainism and architecture). The state also produced influential figures like Basaveshwara (Basavanna), the 12th-century social reformer and founder of Lingayatism who championed equality and devotion through his vachanas; Vijnaneshwara, the renowned jurist who authored the Mitakshara commentary on Hindu law; and Raja Ravi Varma, the pioneering painter who blended European realism with Indian mythology, making art accessible through lithographs.
The Vijayanagara Empire (1336–1565/1646), founded by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I, was a golden age of Hindu revival. With its capital at Hampi, it patronized arts, literature, religion, and architecture while resisting invasions, fostering a vibrant cultural legacy.
After the empire's decline following the Battle of Talikota (1565), the region saw the rise of the Kingdom of Mysore under the Wodeyars, later expanded by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. The Portuguese arrived on the coast in the early 16th century, introducing new crops like tobacco and groundnut (peanuts), which transformed local agriculture. British influence grew after the fall of Tipu Sultan in 1799 and the Peshwas.
The modern state formed in 1956 through the linguistic reorganization of states, unifying Kannada-speaking areas. Initially called Mysore State, it was renamed Karnataka in 1973.
Geographically, Karnataka spans diverse landscapes, with the forest department managing approximately 20.15% of the state's area (around 38,720 sq km recorded forest cover). It includes 5 national parks (e.g., Bandipur, Nagarhole, Anshi-Dandeli) and over 30 wildlife sanctuaries, supporting rich biodiversity.
Agriculture employs about 55-56% of the workforce, with 66% of the population rural. Around 72% of cultivable land is rainfed, and only 28% is irrigated. Red soil dominates, followed by black soil, supporting crops like ragi, jowar, and cotton.
Karnataka is a leading milk producer and pioneered hydroelectric projects, with early stations like Shivanasamudra (Asia's first major one in 1902) harnessing rivers such as Cauvery and Sharavathi.
Bengaluru is India's premier biotech hub, hosting the largest bioclusters with companies like Biocon and Syngene, driving innovation in pharmaceuticals and life sciences.
Tourism thrives on heritage and nature:
Mysuru Palace – Iconic royal residence with Indo-Saracenic architecture.
Nagarhole National Park – Renowned for tigers, elephants, and wildlife safaris.
Belur and Halebidu – Stunning Hoysala temples showcasing intricate carvings.
Srirangapatna – Historical site with Tipu Sultan's fort and Ranganathaswamy Temple.
Karnataka blends ancient heritage with modern dynamism, offering something for every visitor.