Former External Affairs Minister and Chief Minister S.M. Krishna Passes Away at 92

Bengaluru, Tuesday: Renowned statesman Somanahalli Mallaiah Krishna, who served as a Member of Parliament for over five decades, passed away on Tuesday in his Bengaluru residence at the age of 92. He had been undergoing treatment for longstanding age-related ailments.

Krishna's illustrious political career was characterized by his exceptional intellectual prowess and administrative acumen. A trailblazer in Karnataka politics, he left an indelible mark on the state's governance and development.

Born on May 1, 1932, in the town of Maddur, Krishna pursued higher education at several prestigious institutions, including Maharaja's College in Mysuru, Government Law College in Bengaluru, Southern Methodist University in Texas, and George Washington University in Washington, DC. A Fulbright Scholarship recipient, he was considered one of the most academically accomplished leaders to have served in India.

As Chief Minister of Karnataka from 1999 to 2004, Krishna played a pivotal role in transforming Bengaluru into a global IT hub. His tenure as External Affairs Minister from 2009 to 2012 under the UPA government further solidified his reputation as a distinguished statesman.

Krishna initially held sway as a long-time Congress stalwart but joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2017 due to ideological differences. After retirement, he continued to be an influential figure in Karnataka politics.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Krishna was awarded the esteemed Padma Bhushan in 2023. His legacy as a visionary leader and committed public servant will continue to inspire generations to come.

With a lifelong connection to Karnataka's cultural heritage and history, Krishna's impact on the state is still deeply felt today. He inaugurated the Mysuru Dasara festivities in 2021, cementing his status as an icon of Karnataka politics.