Somanahalli Mallaiah Krishna, a towering figure in Indian politics and former Chief Minister of Karnataka, passed away at 92, leaving behind an indelible legacy that spanned decades of service to Karnataka and the nation. From his early days as a scholar in the United States to his transformative role in Karnataka’s development, SM Krishna had a journey that exemplified dedication, intellect, and statesmanship.
After earning a Master’s in Law as a Fulbright Scholar from Southern Methodist University in Texas, USA, the 27-year-old SM Krishna moved to Washington, DC, in 1957-58 to pursue a career. During this period, he stumbled upon an advertisement in The New York Times for a position at the Association of American Manufacturers. The job of “messenger,” as Krishna later learned, involved lobbying members of Congress about manufacturing policies.
Krishna excelled with his natural charm and keen intellect, forging connections with influential American leaders, including John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon. His admiration for Kennedy led him to campaign for the future President, earning him a personal thank-you letter, which remained one of Krishna’s cherished possessions. Despite wanting to stay in the US and build a political career, Krishna returned to India following his father’s death, taking up family responsibilities.
Krishna’s political career began with a surprise victory as an independent candidate in the 1962 Karnataka Assembly elections. He later joined the Congress party under Indira Gandhi’s leadership and became integral to her circle. In the 1970s, he was pivotal as Minister for Industries and Commerce in D. Devaraj Urs’s government, helping establish Peenya as Asia’s largest industrial area.
Transforming Karnataka’s Landscape
Krishna’s tenure as Chief Minister from 1999 to 2004 is a golden period for Karnataka. His vision turned Bengaluru into India’s Silicon Valley, attracting IT giants and fostering an era of technological innovation. He spearheaded landmark projects, including the Outer Ring Road, which revolutionized the city’s connectivity, and the development of Kempegowda International Airport.
His government also emphasized urban beautification, including the revival of Bengaluru’s famed Lalbagh botanical garden, ensuring it remained a green oasis amid rapid urbanization. Krishna’s emphasis on infrastructure extended to initiatives like the Bengaluru Metro and the Yashaswini health insurance scheme for farmers, which set a precedent for state-led welfare programs.
Krishna faced significant challenges during his tenure, including prolonged droughts, the Cauvery water-sharing dispute, and the abduction of Kannada icon Rajkumar by forest brigand Veerappan. Despite these hurdles, he maintained a calm demeanour and showed remarkable resilience.
After stepping down as Chief Minister, Krishna served as the Governor of Maharashtra and later as India’s Minister of External Affairs during UPA-II, leaving his mark on India’s foreign policy.
Personal and political setbacks marked Krishna’s later years. He was disappointed when the Congress leadership overlooked him for key positions, leading him to join the BJP in 2017. However, he remained a misfit in the party and largely avoided active politics.
The tragic loss of his son-in-law, VG Siddhartha, the founder of Café Coffee Day, in 2019 deeply affected Krishna and his family. Despite these struggles, Krishna remained a passionate reader, music lover, and tennis enthusiast until his final days.
As a statesman who balanced urban progress with rural welfare, industrial growth with environmental conservation, and local governance with a global vision, SM Krishna leaves a legacy. His contributions to Karnataka’s IT revolution, infrastructure development, and social welfare continue to shape the state’s identity.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Prema, and their two daughters, Malavika and Shambhavi. Karnataka mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished sons, whose life was a testament to vision, dedication, and resilience.
(With inputs from News18)
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