BANGALORE: Former Karnataka Chief Minister Somanahalli Mallaiah Krishna, a visionary leader credited with transforming Bengaluru into India’s Silicon Valley, passed away at the age of 92. He had been battling prolonged illness and breathed his last at his Bengaluru residence early Tuesday morning, according to family sources.
The Karnataka government has declared three days of state mourning to honor Krishna's legacy. During this period, no celebrations or public functions will be held, and his last rites will be performed with full state honors.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, describing Krishna as a remarkable leader who worked tirelessly for the betterment of society. "Shri SM Krishna Ji was a remarkable leader, admired by people from all walks of life. He always worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others," Modi said in a post on X.
A Lifetime of Political Achievements
Born on May 1, 1932, in Somanahalli, Mandya district, Karnataka, Krishna embarked on his political journey in 1962 by winning the Maddur Assembly seat as an Independent. He was initially associated with the Praja Socialist Party before joining the Congress, where he remained a prominent figure for nearly five decades. In 2017, Krishna resigned from the Congress and joined the BJP, citing the party’s lack of clarity regarding mass leadership.
Krishna held several key positions throughout his career, including serving as Karnataka’s 16th Chief Minister from 1999 to 2004, the Governor of Maharashtra, and India’s External Affairs Minister from 2009 to 2012 under the UPA government.
Global Exposure and Early Inspirations
An accomplished scholar, Krishna studied at the Southern Methodist University in Dallas and George Washington University in the United States. During his student days in 1960, Krishna volunteered to campaign for John F. Kennedy, who later became the 35th President of the United States. Impressed by Krishna’s efforts, Kennedy personally thanked him in a letter.
In 1962, Krishna entered Indian politics, winning his first election from Maddur as an Independent candidate. Over the years, he also represented Mandya in the Lok Sabha, cementing his reputation as a prominent leader from Karnataka.
Padma Vibhushan and Legacy
In early 2023, Krishna was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award. The recognition was seen as a tribute to his stature as a Vokkaliga leader and his contributions to the state and the nation. Krishna’s political career was marked by significant rivalries, including with H.D. Deve Gowda, another stalwart Vokkaliga leader.
Padma Vibhushan and Legacy
In early 2023, Krishna was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award. The recognition was seen as a tribute to his stature as a Vokkaliga leader and his contributions to the state and the nation. Krishna’s political career was marked by significant rivalries, including with H.D. Deve Gowda, another stalwart Vokkaliga leader.
Krishna retired from active politics in January 2023, citing his advanced age. He leaves behind a legacy of progress, vision, and leadership that will continue to inspire generations.
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