SM Krishna, the renowned politician and former Chief Minister of Karnataka, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 92 in Bengaluru. The veteran leader, known for his key role in elevating Bengaluru to global prominence, breathed his last at his residence around 2:45 am after battling a prolonged illness. His demise marks the end of an era for Karnataka politics, as Krishna’s legacy continues to resonate through his years of public service.
Krishna’s passing has deeply saddened the political and public circles. His contributions to the state of Karnataka, as well as to the nation, have been immense. The Karnataka government has announced a three-day state mourning to honor the veteran leader, and his last rites will be held with full state honors in Mandya district tomorrow.
A Remarkable Political Career
SM Krishna, born in Somanahalli in Mandya district on May 1, 1932, had a distinguished political career that spanned several decades. He served as the Chief Minister of Karnataka from 1999 to 2004, a period during which he significantly contributed to the state’s development. His leadership is widely credited for transforming Bengaluru into a thriving tech hub and putting the city on the world map as a center for information technology and innovation.
Krishna was also appointed the Governor of Maharashtra from 2004 to 2008. His tenure as governor was marked by his diplomatic and administrative acumen. Later, he served as the External Affairs Minister during the Manmohan Singh-led UPA government from 2009 to 2012, where he played a key role in strengthening India’s global diplomacy.
In addition to his political accomplishments, SM Krishna was a pivotal figure in shaping the modern identity of Karnataka, particularly Bengaluru’s rise as the Silicon Valley of India. His efforts to promote technology and innovation laid the groundwork for the city’s reputation as a global IT hub.
Contributions to Public Life and Recognition
Throughout his illustrious career, Krishna received numerous accolades for his services to the nation and state. He was awarded the prestigious Padma Vibhushan in 2023 for his significant contributions to public affairs. This recognition was a testament to his decades of work in politics, governance, and diplomacy.
Krishna’s legacy extends beyond just his political positions. He was instrumental in promoting education, infrastructure, and cultural growth in Karnataka. His work on bringing investments into the state and promoting the IT sector helped shape Bengaluru into one of India’s most vibrant and globally recognized cities.
Educational Background and Early Life
Before embarking on his political journey, Krishna had a solid educational foundation. He was a law graduate and had a distinguished academic career. Krishna studied in the United States, where he attended Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, and later The George Washington University Law School in Washington, D.C., as a Fulbright Scholar. His international education and exposure to global governance shaped his worldview, which he later applied in his political career.
Later Years and Retirement from Active Politics
In 2017, SM Krishna made a significant shift in his political journey by joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Though he kept a low profile in his new party, his shift was seen as a major political move, signaling the end of his long association with the Indian National Congress. In recent years, Krishna retired from active politics, leaving behind a legacy of statesmanship and public service.
Krishna’s contributions to Indian politics and governance remain unmatched, and his passing has left a void in the political landscape of Karnataka and India. His family, including his wife Prema and daughters Shambhavi and Malavika, survives him. The entire nation mourns the loss of a great leader whose work impacted generations of citizens and leaders alike.
A Tribute to SM Krishna
SM Krishna’s death has sparked tributes from political leaders, colleagues, and citizens who remember him as a dedicated public servant who always put the welfare of the people first. His role in transforming Karnataka, especially Bengaluru, into an IT and innovation hub, will be remembered as one of his key contributions to the nation’s growth.
As the state prepares to bid farewell to one of its most respected leaders, his memory will endure in the many projects and policies that continue to benefit the people of Karnataka. The Padma Vibhushan award and the honor he received for his work are just a few reflections of the immense contribution he made to India’s political, social, and cultural fabric.
SM Krishna’s passing marks the end of a major chapter in Indian politics. His dedication to public service, his visionary leadership in transforming Bengaluru into a global IT hub, and his role in the national government as External Affairs Minister have left an indelible mark on the country’s political history. As Karnataka and India mourn the loss of a great statesman, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders to serve with dedication and vision.
