Siddaramanahundi, Chief Minister-designate Siddaramaiah’s village, erupted in jubilation over the nomination of its proud son to the top post, which eluded him twice in his decades-long political career.
The celebrations began when the TV channels flashed the news that Mr. Siddaramaiah is set to become the State's 28th Chief Minister.
His younger brothers — Sidde Gowda and Rame Gowda — and the residents gathered outside the Siddarameshwara temple, the family deity of Mr. Siddaramaiah, to celebrate the historic moment for the village, located about 15 km from Mysore off T. Narsipur Road.
The last time Mr. Siddaramaiah visited Siddaramanahundi was on May 5 to cast his vote. The village comes under Varuna constituency from where the Congress leader won with an impressive margin. He visits the village during festivals and jatra mahotsava, the villagers said.
“I am overjoyed to hear the news. It is a great occasion for our family and the people of the village. We will go to Bangalore to witness the swearing-in ceremony. I am sure my brother will be one of the best Chief Ministers,” said Mr. Rame Gowda.
Siddaramaiah is the second son to the late Siddarame Gowda and Boramma. His elder brother, Thamme Gowda, passed away sometime ago and two younger brothers live in the village and younger sister lives in another village.
This correspondent visited his tiled-roof ancestral home where the Chief Minister-designate was born and brought up. Siddaramaiah's nameplate is displayed outside the ancestral house. His brothers live in separate houses in the village. The walls of these houses adorn the old pictures of Mr. Siddaramaiah.
Recalling his childhood friend, Siddu said, “We were proud when he (Siddaramaiah) became a lawyer and started his profession in Mysore since the village had very few educated persons. Now, he has been designated as Chief Minister. Indeed, there are no words to describe the moment."
Says Sidde Gowda: “The entire village was awaiting this moment since over a decade. He should have become Chief Minister long back – in 1999 and 2004. I was confident that one day he will occupy the top post. That day has come now and I am ecstatic.” Mahadeva, a young admirer of the proud son of Siddaramanahundi, said the charismatic leader is an icon and inspiration for youngsters like him. The celebrations will continue a few more days as this a proud occasion for a tiny village.””
The youth burst crackers and danced to celebrate the occasion.
