List of Former Governors of Karnataka (1956-2024)

In the rich tapestry of India’s political landscape, the role of Governors in various states holds significant importance. Karnataka, a state known for its cultural heritage, technological advancements, and diverse populace, has witnessed the stewardship of several eminent personalities who served as Governors. These individuals have played a crucial role in shaping the political, social, and economic trajectory of the state. Let’s delve into a comprehensive list of former Governors of Karnataka and explore their contributions.

Governors of Karnataka

Since its formation in 1956, Karnataka, formerly known as Mysore until 1973, has seen 18 individuals holding the position of Governor. Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar was the inaugural Rajpramukh from 1950 to 1956. Among these governors, ten were politicians, while five were civil servants. Notably, V. V. Giri went on to become India’s fourth president, and Gopal Swarup Pathak served as the fourth vice president. Smt. V. S. Ramadevi stands out as the sole female Governor of Karnataka, serving from 1999 to 2002. She also made history as India’s first female Chief Election Commissioner.

Inaugural Governor of Karnataka

Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar held the distinction of being the first Governor of Karnataka, serving from November 1, 1956, to May 4, 1963. His tenure was instrumental in shaping the nascent state’s governance framework and developmental trajectory. Wadiyar’s leadership during this foundational period set the tone for subsequent administrations, leaving a lasting impact on Karnataka’s political and socio-economic landscape.

Current Governor of Karnataka

Thawar Chand Gehlot currently serves as the Governor of Karnataka, assuming office on July 11, 2021. As the incumbent Governor, Gehlot oversees the state’s administrative affairs, contributing to its governance and development initiatives. His tenure signifies a continuation of gubernatorial stewardship, aimed at fostering progress and prosperity in Karnataka.

Longest Serving Governor of Karnataka

Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala, born on January 23, 1937, holds the distinction of being the longest-serving Governor of Karnataka. He served as the 12th Governor from September 1, 2014, to July 6, 2021. Vala’s tenure surpassed that of Khurshed Alam Khan, marking a significant chapter in Karnataka’s gubernatorial history under his stewardship.

First Woman Governor of Karnataka

Smt. V. S. Ramadevi made history as Karnataka’s first and only female Governor, serving from 1999 to 2002. Her appointment marked a significant milestone in the state’s governance. Additionally, she achieved another groundbreaking feat as India’s inaugural female Chief Election Commissioner, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in both state and national administrative roles.

List of Former Governors of Karnataka

Since its formation in 1956, Karnataka, formerly known as Mysore until 1973, has seen 18 individuals holding the position of Governor.

Here is the list of former Governors of Karnataka from 1956 to 2024:

Former Governors of Karnataka (1956-2024)
S. No.	Name	From	To
1.	Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar	1 Nov 1956	4 May 1963
2.	S. M. Shrinagesh	4 May 1963	2 Apr 1965
3.	V. V. Giri	2 Apr 1965	13 May 1967
4.	Gopal Swarup Pathak	13 May 1967	30 Aug 1969
5.	Dharma Vira	23 Oct 1970	1 Feb 1972
6.	Mohanlal Sukhadia	1 Feb 1972	10 Jan 1975
7.	Uma Shankar Dikshit	10 Jan 1975	2 Aug 1977
8.	Govind Narain	2 Aug 1977	15 Apr 1982
9.	Ashoknath Banerji	16 Apr 1982	25 Feb 1987
10.	Pendekanti Venkatasubbaiah	26 Feb 1987	5 Feb 1990
11.	Bhanu Pratap Singh	8 May 1990	6 Jan 1992
12.	Khurshed Alam Khan	6 Jan 1992	2 Dec 1999
13.	V. S. Ramadevi	2 Dec 1999	20 Aug 2002
14.	T. N. Chaturvedi	21 Aug 2002	20 Aug 2007
15.	Rameshwar Thakur	21 Aug 2007	24 Jun 2009
16.	Hansraj Bhardwaj	24 Jun 2009	29 Jun 2014
17.	Konijeti Rosaiah	29 Jun 2014	31 Aug 2014
18.	Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala	1 Sep 2014	10 Jul 2021
19.	Thawar Chand Gehlot	11 Jul 2014	Incumbent

Functions of a Governor

The Governor of a state in India serves as the constitutional head and representative of the President of India. Their functions include:

• Executive Powers: The Governor appoints the Chief Minister and other members of the Council of Ministers. They also appoint the Advocate General and state Election Commissioners.
• Legislative Powers: The Governor summons and prorogues sessions of the state legislature, addresses the legislature, and can dissolve the Legislative Assembly. They also give assent to bills passed by the state legislature.
• Administrative Powers: The Governor is responsible for the state’s administration, ensuring that laws are faithfully executed. They are the custodian of the state’s official seal and state documents.
• Discretionary Powers: The Governor exercises discretion in certain matters such as the appointment of Chief Minister when no party has a clear majority after an election or when a state government loses a vote of confidence.
• Emergency Powers: During emergencies, the Governor can impose President’s Rule in the state if the constitutional machinery breaks down. They can also recommend President’s Rule based on a report from the Governor or otherwise.
• Judicial Powers: The Governor can grant pardons, reprieves, respites, or remissions of punishment or suspend, remit or commute the sentence of any person convicted of any offence against any law relating to a matter to which the executive power of the state extends.
• Constitutional Duties: The Governor must ensure that the state government functions within the framework of the Constitution and upholds the principles of democracy, secularism, and federalism.
• Representative Role: The Governor represents the state in various official functions and ceremonies. They also act as a link between the state government and the central government.