Bengaluru: With the demise of Shamanur Shivashankarappa, Karnataka has lost a senior leader of an entire generation, said former Chief Minister and Member of Parliament Basavaraj Bommai.
He stated that Shivashankarappa had made unparalleled contributions through his own business initiatives, in the fields of education, and in building the community.
After paying his final respects to the mortal remains of Shamanur Shivashankarappa in Davangere and later speaking to the media, Bommai said that Shivashankarappa was a truly rare personality – one who led a very simple life and was known for his friendly nature.
Despite his age, he cherished friendships and maintained bonds with two to three generations of people. Karnataka has lost a senior politician and a socially committed leader.
Bommai noted that hundreds of institutions established by Shivashankarappa have educated lakhs of students who have gone on to achieve great success in various fields, and that this itself stands as a testament to his immense contribution. His service to the entire state of Karnataka was immense. Despite his stature and achievements, he never projected his seniority or accomplishments. ” We have lost such a farsighted and statesmanlike leader,” he said.
He further said that the All India Veerashaiva Mahasabha has been left orphaned by his passing. During his lifetime, everyone acknowledged his seniority and leadership and accorded him great respect; now, that void is clearly felt. The people of Davangere too feel orphaned. There was a strong belief that if any issue arose, Shamanur Shivashankarappa would be there, and that problems could be resolved under his leadership.
He recalled that Shivashankarappa had been elected as an MLA six times in his public life and had maintained his own distinct stature. Even in his advanced age, he served as an efficient minister who delivered capable administration. Hence, he was indeed a very rare individual. His passing is like the severing of a generational link, Bommai said.