Karnataka Rajyotsava is an annual festival that celebrates the formation of the state of Karnataka in India. Observed on November 1st each year, it commemorates this significant day in 1956 when all Kannada-speaking regions were merged to form the state of Karnataka. The state, rich in history, culture, and heritage, showcases a diverse and vibrant identity through this celebration.

The reorganisation of states on a linguistic basis was a significant event in the history of modern India. The States Reorganisation Act of 1956 was the result of the efforts made to reorganise states along linguistic lines, thereby creating states where the majority of the population spoke the same language. This act led to the formation of various linguistic states, including the state of Karnataka.

The efforts of various political leaders, including those from the Kannada-speaking regions, were instrumental in the formation of Karnataka. Pioneers such as K. Chengalaraya Reddy, S. Nijalingappa, and others played crucial roles in advocating for linguistic reorganisation.