Kannada University is established through the Kannada University Act, 1991. University is located in Hampi. Hampi is an important historical site belonging to Vijayanagara Kingdom and is situated in Hosapete Taluk of Bellary District. Vijayanagara Kingdom has been the icon of Kannada identity and has inspired the Karnataka unification movement. In other words Hampi is symbolically representing the unified Karnataka.  Besides, Hampi is the treasure house of Indian Architecture and has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Center. Founders of Kannada University were not only specific about the location of the university; they had the intention of establishing a unique university – unique in terms of purpose, in terms of language, in terms of definition of knowledge and in terms of jurisdiction.