DK Shivakumar's Kumbh Mela visit sparks political speculations in Karnataka

Bengaluru: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and senior Congress leader DK Shivakumar’s visit to the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela and his ritual dip at the Triveni Sangam have triggered intense political discussions across party lines. While BJP leaders have been quick to interpret his visit through a Hindutva lens, Congress leaders have largely remained silent on the matter.

Shivakumar, addressing the media, dismissed political interpretations of his religious visit. “Kumbh Mela, Ganga snan, Mahashivaratri, and Navaratri are all part of my personal faith. No one has the right to question it,” he said.

However, BJP leaders have drawn parallels between Shivakumar’s actions and Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde’s political transition, speculating on his future moves. This has fueled debates over whether he is positioning himself independently within Karnataka’s political landscape.

Some media experts say that Congress leaders are staying quiet about DK Shivakumar’s visit because they don’t want to get into debates about Hindu traditions. In the past, Congress has been criticized for not supporting Hindu beliefs enough, so they are being careful now.

As these events unfold, BJP’s alliance with JD(S) in Karnataka is also going through changes, with some leaders guessing about possible new political moves. With many wondering about Shivakumar’s next steps, Karnataka’s politics is becoming more intense and unpredictable.