Champaka Sarasi, located in Shivamogga city, is a historic pushkarini (temple tank/pond) that stands as a poignant symbol of love and sacrifice. According to legend, Keladi King Venkatappa Nayaka of the 16th–17th century fell in love with Champakalu, a beautiful woman from the Bestara fishing community, after being enchanted by her artistic rangoli designs. Despite social resistance, he married her.
However, Bhadramaji, the Pattada Rani (chief queen), strongly opposed this inter-caste union and undertook a fast unto death. When false news spread that the citizens saw the king’s act as dishonorable, Champakalu consumed milk mixed with diamond powder and sacrificed her life. Deeply grief-stricken, King Venkatappa Nayaka built this pond in her memory and named it “Champaka Sarasi.” Today, the pond remains not just a water reservoir but also a memorial of love, tragedy, and social conflict, echoing stories of the Keladi dynasty.