Description: The Chitradurga Fort is locally known as Elusuttina Kote (the fort of seven layers). The fort has been ruled by many kings and is famous for many battles. During the 18th century the town was ruled by Nayakas. The Chitradurga kingdom lay between two powerful kingdoms of Maharashtra and Mysore. Onake Obavva was a brave woman who fought the forces of Hyder Ali single-handledly with a pestle (Onake) in the kingdom of Chitradurga. Her husband was a guard of a watchtower in the rocky fort of Chitradurga.

Once, when Obavva's husband had gone for lunch, Obavva was on guard. She noticed a solider entering though the crevice. Using her discretion, she struck the solider on the head with a pestle or an Onake. The blow killed the solider instantly. She stood guarding the crevice after hiding the body of the solider and killed the other soldiers one by one. This woman, with no prior training in warfare whatsoever, did not let the situation deter her and continued to defend the fort from the enemies. After her husband returned, he saw the pile of bodies next to a bloodied Onake and his wife still slaying the incoming soldiers. He immediately sounded the war alarm signaling battle with the force of Hyder Ali.

Finally Obavva died on the same day due to unknown causes. The Crevice guarded by her is now named Obavanna Kindi in her honour. Chitradurga also has a stadium named Veera Vanithe Onake Obavva Stadium to remember her contributions and keep her legacy alive. Obavva is also commemorated with a statue by Ashok Gudigar which is placed in front of the District Commissioner's office in Chitradurga.