Senior Congress leader D.K. Shivakumar was sworn in as the 18th Chief Minister of Karnataka on Wednesday, bringing an end to a prolonged leadership debate that had dominated political discussions for nearly two years.

The swearing-in ceremony was held at the Glass House in Lok Bhavan, where Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot administered the oath of office and secrecy to Shivakumar.

G. Parameshwara Takes Oath as Deputy Chief Minister

Alongside Shivakumar, senior Dalit leader G. Parameshwara, who previously served as Karnataka’s Home Minister, took oath as the Deputy Chief Minister. Twelve other ministers were also inducted into the new cabinet, marking the beginning of a new Congress-led administration in the state.

Top Congress Leaders Attend Ceremony

The oath-taking ceremony witnessed the presence of several prominent Congress leaders, including AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, and Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal.

Earlier in the day, Shivakumar and former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah welcomed Kharge and Rahul Gandhi at the HAL Airport in Bengaluru ahead of the swearing-in event.

Industry Leaders and Celebrities Present

The ceremony drew participation from several distinguished personalities from various fields. Among those present were Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy and his wife, Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murty, former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble, actress Jayamala, and Kannada film star Shiva Rajkumar.

Their presence added significance to the high-profile political event.

Family Members Join Celebrations

Shivakumar’s wife Usha and daughter Aishwarya attended the swearing-in ceremony and joined in celebrating the landmark moment in his political career.

Sonia Gandhi Extends Congratulations

Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi congratulated Shivakumar over the phone following his swearing-in. She also advised him to work collectively and carry all sections of the party along as he begins his tenure as Chief Minister.

New Chapter for Karnataka

With Shivakumar now at the helm, the Congress government is expected to focus on governance, development, and fulfilling its electoral commitments. His elevation to the state’s top post marks a significant milestone in Karnataka politics and a major achievement in his long political journey.

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Major Political Development in Karnataka

Karnataka politics witnessed a dramatic turn on Thursday after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah resigned from his post and submitted his resignation letter to the Governor at Lok Bhavan in Bengaluru.

Before stepping down, Siddaramaiah reportedly proposed the name of Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar as his successor. Following the resignation, Shivakumar is now widely expected to become the next Chief Minister of Karnataka.

DK Shivakumar Among India’s Richest Politicians

D.K. Shivakumar is considered one of the wealthiest politicians in India, with assets worth more than ₹1,400 crore, according to the election affidavit submitted during the 2023 Karnataka Assembly elections.

In the affidavit filed before the Election Commission and uploaded on Myneta.com, Shivakumar declared that the total movable and immovable assets owned by him and his family are valued at over ₹1,413 crore.

At the same time, the affidavit mentioned liabilities and loans amounting to nearly ₹503 crore.

Massive Investments in Stocks and Fixed Deposits

The Karnataka Congress leader has made significant investments in the stock market. According to the affidavit, Shivakumar and his wife invested around ₹4.20 crore in various companies and financial instruments, including investments linked to Union Bank, Bank of Baroda, Kaustubh Projects, and Vikras Developers.

Apart from this, he also reportedly holds fixed deposits worth nearly ₹9 crore.

Luxury Watches, Jewellery and Precious Assets

The affidavit also revealed details of Shivakumar’s luxury possessions. He owns expensive watches from premium brands such as Rolex and Hublot, each valued in lakhs of rupees.

The combined value of jewellery, gold, silver, diamonds, and other precious items owned by Shivakumar, his wife, and children was declared at more than ₹3.28 crore.

Agricultural Land and Luxury Properties

According to the election affidavit, Shivakumar and his wife jointly own agricultural land worth nearly ₹30 crore.

In addition, the family owns multiple houses and flats in Bengaluru and Delhi with a combined estimated value of over ₹84 crore.

Owner of Bengaluru’s Global Mall

One of the most significant commercial properties linked to D.K. Shivakumar is Bengaluru’s Global Mall, which is reportedly valued at nearly ₹900 crore.

Besides the mall, the family also owns several shops and commercial establishments worth crores of rupees.

Huge Bank Deposits and Property Holdings

The affidavit further stated that Shivakumar and his family members have bank deposits exceeding ₹16 crore across multiple accounts.

Overall, Shivakumar declared movable assets worth around ₹244 crore in his own name, while family assets were valued at ₹273 crore.

His immovable assets were declared at nearly ₹970 crore, whereas the family’s immovable property holdings stood at around ₹1,140 crore.

With Karnataka set for a leadership transition, all eyes are now on D.K. Shivakumar, who is expected to formally take charge as the next Chief Minister in the coming days.

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Major Political Shift in Karnataka

In a major political development, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has resigned from his post after weeks of political tension, internal conflict, and allegations within the ruling Congress party. The veteran leader submitted his resignation letter at the Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru and later confirmed the development during a press conference.

Following his resignation, discussions have intensified over Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar likely becoming the next Chief Minister of the state.

Siddaramaiah Thanks Congress High Command

Addressing the media after stepping down, Siddaramaiah said that the Congress high command had asked him to resign, and he respected the party’s decision.

He expressed gratitude to senior Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Rahul Gandhi for giving him the opportunity to serve as Chief Minister.

“I have submitted my resignation as Chief Minister of Karnataka. The high command asked me to step down, and I have followed their instructions,” Siddaramaiah stated during the press briefing in Bengaluru.

Emotional Final Cabinet Meeting

Before resigning, Siddaramaiah chaired his final cabinet meeting in Bengaluru, where he reportedly became emotional while addressing his cabinet colleagues.

Speaking to ministers, he said that during the last 20 years he may have shouted at or scolded some of them, but it was always done for the benefit of the party and the government.

“There was never anything personal in my actions. Whatever I did was for the interest of the party and the government. Thank you all for supporting me for so many years,” he told his cabinet members.

Resignation Submitted to Governor’s Office

Siddaramaiah said he had submitted his resignation letter at Lok Bhavan. However, since the Governor was not present in Bengaluru at the time, the letter was officially sent to the Governor’s office.

“The Governor is currently away and is expected to return tonight. My resignation letter has been forwarded to his office,” he said.

High Command Directed Resignation

The outgoing Chief Minister further revealed that the Congress leadership had instructed him two days ago to resign from the post.

“I had already told everyone that whenever the high command asked me to resign, I would do so. Two days ago, they asked me to step down, and today I have resigned,” Siddaramaiah added.

The resignation marks a significant turning point in Karnataka politics, with all eyes now on the Congress leadership’s next move regarding the appointment of the new Chief Minister.

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The Kannada film industry is mourning the death of veteran actor Harish Rai, who passed away at the age of 55 on Thursday at Kidwai Hospital in Bengaluru after a prolonged battle with thyroid cancer. The actor, known for his memorable roles in KGF and KGF: Chapter 2, was widely respected for his versatile performances and lasting contribution to South Indian cinema.

Harish Rai: The Man Behind “Khasim Chacha”

Rai became a household name for his portrayal of “Khasim Chacha” in the KGF film series, where he shared the screen with superstar Yash. His strong, emotional performances added depth and realism to his characters, winning him both critical acclaim and audience affection.

Besides KGF, Rai’s impressive filmography includes iconic Kannada films like Om (where he played Don Rai), Sanju Weds Geetha, and Jodi Hakki. His unique ability to blend intensity with sensitivity made him one of the most reliable character actors in the industry.

Battle with Cancer and Industry’s Support

Harish Rai had been battling advanced thyroid cancer, which eventually spread to his stomach. His health deteriorated significantly in the past few months, and he reportedly faced financial challenges in affording his treatment.

Touched by his plight, several industry colleagues and fans came forward to help. Actor Yash, his KGF co-star, took the initiative to raise awareness and personally contributed to Rai’s medical expenses. Despite being busy with his upcoming film Toxic, Yash found time to support Rai — a gesture that won widespread praise within the film community.

Tributes Pour In from Film and Political Circles

Condolences poured in from across the Kannada film fraternity and beyond. Film critic Viral D. Bhadury shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, recalling Rai’s powerful performances and his long-standing contribution to regional cinema.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar also expressed grief over the actor’s passing, saying, “Harish Rai’s work in Kannada cinema will always be remembered. We will miss him deeply.”

Rai’s colleagues, co-stars, and fans described him as a humble and passionate artist who lived for his craft.

A Legacy Etched in South Indian Cinema

Over a career spanning more than three decades, Harish Rai appeared in numerous Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu films, excelling in both villainous and supporting roles. His performances left an indelible mark on audiences and fellow artists alike.

Rai leaves behind his wife and two sons, along with a grieving film fraternity that remembers him as a true artist whose talent transcended the screen.

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