Somanahalli Mallaiah Krishna (SM Krishna), the former chief minister of karnataka, passed away on december 10, 2024, at the age of 92 after battling a prolonged illness. He breathed his last at his residence in Bengaluru, and his family confirmed the news of his demise. The mortal remains of the veteran politician will be taken to his hometown of Maddur for the final rites.

A Visionary leader in Karnataka’s Growth

SM krishna is widely remembered for his pivotal role in shaping the development of karnataka, particularly Bengaluru, which emerged as one of India's foremost technology hubs under his leadership. Serving as the chief minister of karnataka from 1999 to 2004, Krishna's tenure saw the rapid growth of the state's IT sector, transforming Bengaluru into a global tech powerhouse. His efforts to attract multinational corporations, nurture local startups, and establish the infrastructure needed for tech growth played a significant role in Bengaluru’s rise, making it a rival to the famed Silicon Valley in the United States.

During the same period, another prominent leader, N. Chandrababu Naidu, the chief minister of the undivided Andhra Pradesh, was also focused on transforming his state’s capital, hyderabad, into a major IT hub. The two leaders became fierce competitors in their quest to establish their cities as the heart of India’s IT industry. While Naidu succeeded in making hyderabad a key player, it was Krishna’s vision and policies that solidified Bengaluru’s position as the nation’s undisputed tech capital.

Political journey and National Prominence

Krishna's influence extended beyond karnataka, reaching the national stage. After serving as chief minister, he was appointed as India’s External Affairs minister from 2009 to 2012 during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. His tenure in this important role saw him manage critical international relations and represent india on the global stage. His diplomatic acumen further solidified his reputation as an astute and influential political figure.

In 2017, krishna joined the bharatiya janata party (BJP), marking a significant shift in his political data-alignment. Despite the transition, his reputation as a senior statesman in indian politics remained intact.

Recognitions and Legacy

In recognition of his immense contributions to public service, SM krishna was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2023, India’s second-highest civilian honor. His enduring legacy is not just in his work for karnataka but also in his global impact as a trained lawyer, diplomat, and public servant. A graduate of George Washington university and Southern Methodist university in the U.S., Krishna's educational background was a testament to his international outlook. He represented india on numerous global forums, including the United Nations, and was a respected voice in international diplomacy.

As news of his passing spreads, tributes from across the political spectrum and beyond have poured in, reflecting the immense respect krishna garnered throughout his life. From his role in Karnataka’s development to his influence on India’s foreign policy, SM Krishna’s legacy as a statesman and leader will undoubtedly be remembered for generations to come