The history of India's freedom struggle has traditionally been narrated through prominent national leaders, major political organisations and well-documented mass movements. Such an approach, while significant, can obscure the participation of socially and economically marginalised communities whose contributions were often local, informal and inadequately documented. This article examines the participation of members of the Madiga community in the freedom movement in the Chitradurga–Davangere region of Karnataka. Drawing primarily upon locally documented accounts and field-based information, the study identifies individuals who participated in Forest Satyagraha, the Quit India Movement, Congress campaigns, public mobilisation, processions and other forms of resistance. The experiences of A.K. Yarappa, T. Marappa, Congress Rangappa, Hanumanthappa, A.K. Thimmappa, Shivalli Siddappa, B. Shyamappa, Mannappa and others, Dodda Siddavanahalli Aatada Pennayya, and M. Kenchappa illustrate the diverse forms of participation undertaken by members of the community. The study argues that their contribution should not be assessed only through conventional measures such as leadership positions or imprisonment. Mobilisation, communication, cultural participation, logistical support and collective action were also important components of the movement. The article further highlights the problem of historical invisibility arising from inadequate documentary evidence, particularly in relation to recognition and freedom-fighter pensions. By bringing these local experiences into the broader history of India's freedom movement, the study contributes to a more inclusive understanding of anti-colonial resistance in Karnataka.

Keywords: Freedom Movement, Madiga Community, Karnataka, Chitradurga, Davangere, Forest Satyagraha, Quit India Movement, Dalit History, Subaltern History, Social Participation