Karnataka’s film icon Shiva Rajkumar may join Lok Sabha race

In a dramatic turn of events in Karnataka’s political landscape, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has extended an unprecedented invitation to Kannada movie star Shiva Rajkumar to join the fray for the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This sensational offer was announced at the ‘Eidiga’ community convention in Bengaluru, sparking widespread speculation and excitement.

Shivakumar, in his statement, expressed his desire for Shiva Rajkumar to represent any constituency in the Lok Sabha, viewing it as a golden opportunity. This move aligns with the broader strategy of appealing to a diverse electorate and marks a significant shift in political campaigning in Karnataka.

Shiva Rajkumar, the illustrious son of legendary actor Dr. Rajkumar and a superstar in his own right, has been a prominent figure in the Kannada film industry. His close ties with the Congress Party have long been the subject of political rumors, and this latest development seems to be an extension of that narrative.

Cinema Star Shiva Rajkumar Offered a Political Debut in Karnataka’s Lok Sabha Race. Photo courtesy of ಚೇತನ್ ಅಣ್ಣಾಜಿ ಗೌಡ/Wikimedia Commons.

Amid his busy schedule with multiple film projects, Shiva Rajkumar has yet to confirm his acceptance of this political offer. His potential entry into politics is seen as a game-changer, given his immense popularity and influence.

Shiva Rajkumar’s familial connections further add to the intrigue. His brother-in-law, Madhu Bangarappa, currently serves as Karnataka’s Education Minister, and his wife, Geeta Shiv Rajkumar, joined the Congress party prior to the Assembly elections earlier this year.

DK Shivakumar, also the President of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), is strategically aiming for a major victory in the Lok Sabha polls. His goal to secure at least 20 seats from Karnataka is seen as a bid to reinforce the party’s prominence following their resounding success earlier in the year.

The potential political debut of Shiva Rajkumar is not just a significant development for the Congress party but also a notable moment in Indian politics, where the lines between cinema and politics have often intersected. As the Lok Sabha elections approach, all eyes are on Shiva Rajkumar’s decision, which could potentially reshape the political narrative in Karnataka and beyond.