D.K. Shivakumar Remembers His Mentor S.M. Krishna: The Architect of Bengaluru's Silicon City Status

Bengaluru, Dec 10 (NationPress) In a heartfelt tribute to S.M. Krishna, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar expressed his profound sorrow over the passing of his mentor, an esteemed statesman known for elevating Bengaluru to its status as the Silicon City.

Having served as the former chief minister of Karnataka, S.M. Krishna passed away on Tuesday in Bengaluru after battling a prolonged illness at the age of 93.

Shivakumar stated, “The passing of my political mentor, S.M. Krishna, has left a deep void. A guiding light in Karnataka's political arena has dimmed.” Krishna was widely regarded as Shivakumar's political godfather.

He further characterized S.M. Krishna as a gentleman, an erudite politician, and a visionary who ascended the political hierarchy methodically and thoughtfully.

Krishna played a pivotal role in transforming Bengaluru, built by Kempegowda, into a globally recognized city. By establishing Bengaluru as a Silicon City and a hub for IT and biotechnology, S.M. Krishna made substantial contributions to the country's economy, Shivakumar emphasized.

A true pioneer, he laid the groundwork for numerous welfare initiatives, including the Metro Rail project and Devanahalli International Airport. As an adept administrator, he skillfully balanced the needs of both industrial and agricultural sectors, ensuring equitable opportunities for all, Shivakumar recalled.

In matters concerning the state's welfare, he consistently prioritized collaboration over party differences. He was a devoted advocate for the progress of both the state and the nation, according to Shivakumar.

“While we have read about Krishna from the Dwapara Yuga, S.M. Krishna was a modern statesman who embodied those qualities,” D.K. Shivakumar reminisced.

He shared that during S.M. Krishna's peak political career, Krishna guided him through challenges, corrected his errors, and inspired him to excel. His insights served as a bridge between the old and new generations.

S.M. Krishna was a staunch defender of the state's interests, even willing to sacrifice his political position over the Cauvery water dispute. Shivakumar noted that the state has lost a true son of the Cauvery.

D.K. Shivakumar offered prayers for S.M. Krishna's soul to find eternal peace and for divine strength to support his family, friends, supporters, and well-wishers during this difficult time.

Family representatives indicated that the final rites will take place at the Cafe Coffee Day location in Somanahalli, his birthplace, where preparations are underway.

Krishna had a magnificent bungalow in Somanahalli, his favorite retreat, which he had bequeathed to his son-in-law, the late V.G. Siddartha, founder of Cafe Coffee Day. Whenever Krishna visited Maddur, he cherished his time there. Preparations for the final rites are being organized on a two-and-a-half-acre site. Family sources mentioned that he had visited the CCD unit just two months prior.