Virajpet: Jayalakshmi Govindarao (93), Founder of ‘Rashtramata’ weekly newspaper and the first woman newspaper editor of Kodagu district, passed away at her residence on Jain Street on Tuesday morning.

She leaves behind three sons, one daughter and a host of relatives and friends.

Jayalakshmi, who started ‘Rashtramatha’ weekly in 1974, was the editor of the newspaper.

She had also served as the President of Virajpet Mahila Samaja and was involved in Congress party actively.

Last rites were held at Ursunagar Burial Grounds in the town.