Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Wednesday, 11 November 2026, declared that his life holds no secrets and that he harbours no ill will toward anyone — including former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah — while speaking at the release of a research-based biography documenting his political journey. The event was held at the Senate Hall, Manasagangothri, Mysuru.

Book Launch and Key Remarks

The book, titled 'Chalisuva Bande D. K. Shivakumar', authored by researcher Ramya, traces Shivakumar's life and four-decade political career. Speaking at the launch, the Chief Minister emphasised that he had always acted with the intent of benefiting others and would continue to do so throughout his tenure.

'I have worked with Siddaramaiah. I do not wish ill upon him or anyone else. I have never been a person who wishes harm to others and will not do so in the future either. This is my commitment,' Shivakumar said.

On Political Rivals and Criticism

Shivakumar addressed his long-standing political differences with Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, noting that when the Congress chose to ally with him, he had no intention of causing Kumaraswamy any difficulty. 'Whether he accepts us or not is not important. It is enough if our conscience accepts what we do. There is nothing greater than one's conscience,' he said.

The Chief Minister also acknowledged that the opposition had struggled to accept his political rise, but said he would not yield to pressure or criticism. 'Criticism will die, but the work we do will remain,' he remarked.

Personal Milestones: Degree, Jail and Resilience

In candid personal reflections, Shivakumar said receiving his degree through the University of Mysore's Open University at around the age of 48 was among the most meaningful moments of his life — surpassing even the experience of becoming a Cabinet Minister or Chief Minister. 'The happiness I experienced on receiving my degree was greater than the joy of becoming a Cabinet Minister or Chief Minister. It was a historic day in my life,' he said.

He also recalled his time in jail, stating he never lost confidence during that difficult period. 'Even when I went to jail, I did not lose my confidence. I had faith that I would come out, rebuild the party, bring it to power in the state and sit in this position,' he said. Shivakumar noted that he came from a middle-class family, grew up in a village, and had worked in poultry farming, agriculture, and other businesses before entering politics.

Vision for Mysuru and the Next Generation

Shivakumar said Mysuru carries a rich historical legacy and should grow alongside Bengaluru, with economic activity and employment opportunities spread across cities rather than concentrated in one place. He urged young people to rely on discipline and hard work over luck, and acknowledged that the younger generation was navigating a world shaped by artificial intelligence and platforms like Google and ChatGPT — a reality, he said, that society must adapt to.

Stressing the importance of humanity over caste or religion, he said, 'Our sweat is salty, and everyone's blood is red. Humanity is what matters.' The Chief Minister thanked the people of Kanakapura for their sustained support, crediting them as a central pillar of his political journey. With his tenure still unfolding, Shivakumar appears intent on framing his legacy around service, resilience, and inclusivity.