Leaders mourn S M Krishna's demise

'Krishna held deep respect for Kuvempu, he developed Kuvempu's house into a memorial, declared Kuvempu's 'Jai Bharata Jananiya Tanujate' as state anthem'

- EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @Shivamogga

THE socialist movement in Thirthahalli not only influenced former CM S M Krishna's political journey but also led him to find his life partner and start a new chapter in his life.

Maddur and Thirthahalli were culturally distinct regions. Historically, people from the plains hesitated to form marital relationships with those from the Malnad region, despite sharing the same caste, due to differences in customs. However, Krishna, who entered politics through socialist movements, was introduced to Thirthahalli by prominent socialist leaders. Elected as an MLA at the age of 30 from Maddur under the PSP banner, Krishna quickly gained a reputation as a rising star among senior politicians for his charisma and eloquence. "Though educated abroad, he was known for his humility, earning praise from senior leaders. His association with socialist leader Shantaveri Gopal Gowda deepened his ties to Thirthahalli," said former MLA Konandur Lingappa.

"During a protest at Vidhana Soudha, Gopal Gowda remarked, 'Krishna looks like a youth from Malnad; let's find him a bride here.' Krishna smiled and agreed," Lingappa recalled.

Soon, the family of Chennappa Gowda of Kudumallige proposed a match. The union was finalized in one meeting, and Krishna praised the bride (his wife Prema), saying, "She is a perfect match for our family."

Krishna visited Kudumallige frequently in the early years of his marriage but has rarely done so in the past two decades. Though he visited Shivamogga several times as chief minister, his last visit to Thirthahalli was during the BJP's Maha Parivartana Rally in 2018 with then-party president Amit Shah, according to family members.