Bengaluru: Sonakka (88), wife of late socialist leader Shantaveri Gopala Gowda, passed away on Oct.31.

She was admitted to Jain Hospital at  Vasantha Nagar in Bengaluru following complaints of respiratory problems where she breathed her last on Thursday.

A retired Government School teacher, Sonakka leaves behind her daughter Ila Geetha, son Rama Manohar and a host of relatives and friends.

Mortal remains were kept for public viewing at her Sadashiva Nagar residence in Bengaluru before being cremated at Hebbal electric crematorium yesterday.

Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa visited the hospital and paid his last respects to the departed soul. Former CM Siddharamaiah, former Minister PGR Sindhia and many socialist leaders visited the residence and paid their respects.

It may be mentioned here that Shantaveri Gopala Gowda, inspired by Ram Manohar Lohia, had entered Legislative Assembly in 1952, 1962 and 1967 from Thirthahalli Constituency.

Gopala Gowda Hospital in Mysuru

Dr. H.C. Vishnumurthy (late), a socialist and an ardent follower of Shantaveri Gopala Gowda, who was with him during his last days, has named the hospital established in Nazarbad, Mysuru, after him — Gopala Gowda Shantaveri Memorial Hospital.