Supporters Pray for Shivakumar's CM Rise on His Birthday Bash

Friday's grand birthday festivities for Karnataka's Deputy CM DK Shivakumar turned into a showcase of unwavering loyalty and ambition. Turning 64, the KPCC chief saw temples resonate with prayers for his elevation to Chief Minister, alongside cake-cutting extravaganzas and charitable drives statewide. Leaders didn't shy away from voicing hopes for his leadership takeover. The spotlight fell on Ballari's Durgamma Temple, where MP E. Tukaram and Chairman Anjaneyulu orchestrated a massive event. A 65-kg cake symbolized the scale of support, sliced before a feast for 2,000-plus guests. Tukaram told reporters, 'We've prayed for DK Shivakumar's wishes to come true,' subtly endorsing his CM bid by referencing Kerala's leadership model. He assured that the high command would navigate Karnataka's dynamics similarly, promising a positive shift post-summer. Shivakumar's open desire for the top post, coupled with speculation of a Delhi summons alongside CM Siddaramaiah, fuels the narrative. Chamarajanagar’s Chamrajeswara Temple echoed with similar invocations for his success. In Bengaluru, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy led tributes at Hotel Maurya, lauding Shivakumar's contributions to Congress's 2028 mandate. From Anjaneyulu's vow to thank the deity upon Shivakumar's success to Tukaram's faith in party decisions, the celebrations blended devotion and politics. As loyalists rally, the high command faces mounting pressure amid the government's solid footing. Shivakumar's birthday wasn't just a personal milestone—it marked a pivotal moment in Karnataka's power equations, with eyes now on forthcoming announcements.