Kapu: Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar Calls for Unity and Humanity
Mangalore Today News Network
Udupi, Mar 2, 2025: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar emphasized the importance of upholding humanity and preserving human values, stating that no religion advocates harm to others. He urged people to live by these principles while addressing the Brahma Kalashotsava ceremony at Hosamarigudi Temple in Kapu.
"Temples are places where devotees connect with the divine. Goddess Durga alleviates difficulties and sorrows. Irrespective of religion, the essence remains the same: many names, one divinity; many forms of worship, one devotion; many actions, one dedication; one God with many names," Shivakumar said.
He further reflected on life’s inevitabilities, remarking, "Every human being born must one day face death. Birth is accidental, death is certain, and what matters is the achievements we make in between. God does not give blessings or curses but provides opportunities."
During the event, Kapu MLA Gurme Suresh Shetty felicitated Shivakumar on behalf of the constituency, presenting him with a statuette of Kapu Mariyamma and prasadam. Earlier, Shivakumar offered prayers at the temple and donated a gold-plated silver Brahma Kalasha worth ₹9,99,999 in his wife’s name.
‘Controversy Wherever I Go’:
Speaking to the media in Kapu, Shivakumar addressed controversies surrounding his visits to temples and participation in religious events. "I have participated in Kumbh Melas, where caste, religion, or party distinctions do not exist. I was part of the T. Narasipura Kumbh Mela as well. What is wrong with participating in such events? Speculations about my religious beliefs do not concern me," he said.
Referring to past incidents, he shared, "I was called ‘Yesu Kumar’ by some in this district for supporting a statue of Jesus. When an MP claimed Muslims lack certain sacred values, I responded that they are our brothers and life is incomplete without them. For this, I was given another name. My father named me Shivakumar, meaning Shiva’s son. If I visit a Shiva temple, people call me something else."
Responding to BJP leaders Yashpal Suvarna and Sunil Kumar, who lauded his stance on Hindutva, Shivakumar said, "May they do well, and may the state prosper. Let them first set their own house in order."
On Maharashtra’s appointment of two ministers for border supervision regarding the Belagavi issue, Shivakumar remarked, "We also have ministers supervising border regions. The ministers at every border handle all necessary matters."