Karnataka Pays Emotional Farewell to Former CM SM Krishna

The mortal remains of former Chief Minister SM Krishna were laid to rest with full state honors at his native village, Somanahalli, near Maddur in Mandya district on Wednesday evening. Thousands of mourners, including locals and political leaders, gathered to pay their last respects to the stalwart leader. The final rites were conducted at a Cafe Coffee Day outlet near the Bengaluru-Mysore highway in accordance with Vokkaliga traditions. Krishna’s grandson, Amartya Hegde, lit the pyre during the ceremony, which was accompanied by chants in Krishna’s honor. Police personnel marked the occasion with a ceremonial salute, firing three rounds in the air.

Vedic scholar Vedabrahma Bhanuprakash Sharma led the rituals with the assistance of 15 priests. Religious leaders, including Mahant Sri Nirmalanandanath Swamiji of Adichunchanagiri Mutt and representatives from various Veerashaiva Mutts and local churches, participated alongside Krishna’s family. Among the attendees were prominent political figures such as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, Home Minister G Parameshwara, Assembly Speaker UT Khader, former CMs BY Yeddyurappa, Basavaraj Bommai, and HD Kumaraswamy, as well as Union Ministers and other dignitaries. They offered floral tributes and expressed their condolences to Krishna’s family.

Earlier in the day, Krishna’s body was transported from Bengaluru to Somanahalli in a flower-adorned vehicle. Thousands lined the route, including women and children, eager to bid farewell to the leader who had left a lasting impact on Karnataka. Posters and banners adorned the highway, celebrating Krishna’s legacy. The body was first taken to his ancestral home and then to a nearby farmhouse in a solemn procession. The overwhelming crowd compelled authorities to set up LED screens for people to witness the proceedings.

Deputy CM Shivakumar, a relative of Krishna, personally oversaw the funeral arrangements and expressed gratitude for the public’s support during this difficult time. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the Tricolor by Siddaramaiah to Krishna’s wife, Prema, in a poignant gesture.

SM Krishna’s final journey reflected the love and admiration he garnered throughout his illustrious political career, leaving an indelible mark on Karnataka’s history.