DK Shivakumar NetWorth over Rs. 300 crore
D. K. Shivakumar: A Stalwart in Karnataka Politics
Doddalahalli Kempegowda Shivakumar, popularly known as D. K. Shivakumar, is a prominent Indian politician currently serving as the Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka. Born on May 15, 1962, he has left an indelible mark on the state’s political landscape. Shivakumar is one of the richest politicians in India. His net worth is estimated to be over Rs. 300 crore.
Early Life and Personal Details
Shivakumar hails from Kanakapura, Karnataka, born to Kempegowda and Gouramma. He belongs to the Vokkaliga community, a significant presence in Karnataka politics. His family includes his younger brother, D. K. Suresh, who is also actively involved in politics. In 1993, Shivakumar married Usha, and the couple has two daughters, Aishwarya and Aabharana, and a son, Aakash. Notably, his oldest daughter is married to Amartya, the son of Café Coffee Day founder V. G. Siddhartha. Shivakumar stands out as one of the wealthiest politicians in India.
Educational Background
Shivakumar pursued his education at Maharaja College, Mysore, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. Subsequently, he obtained a Bachelor of Law degree from Bangalore University, laying the academic foundation for his future endeavors.
Political Journey
D. K. Shivakumar entered the political arena in the late 1980s, aligning himself with the Indian National Congress (INC). His political journey saw its initiation when he was elected to the Karnataka Legislative Assembly in 1989, representing the Sathanur constituency. Despite a temporary setback in the 2004 assembly elections, he rebounded in 2008, winning from the Kanakapura constituency. Remarkably, he has retained his MLA status from Kanakapura in every subsequent election, marking an impressive eight-term streak.
Shivakumar served as the Cabinet Minister for Energy in the Siddaramaiah government from 2014 to 2019. His portfolio expanded as he assumed the role of the Minister for Irrigation in the HD Kumaraswamy government from 2019 to 2020. In 2020, he was elected President of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), becoming the first Vokkaliga politician to hold this position in over four decades.
Public Perception and Controversies
Known for his robust grassroots connect and persuasive oratory skills, Shivakumar is often hailed as the “Gandhi of Karnataka.” However, his political journey has not been without controversy. In 2017, he faced arrest by the Enforcement Directorate on money laundering charges, spending nearly 100 days in jail before securing bail.
Financial Standing and Philanthropy
D. K. Shivakumar is recognized as one of the wealthiest politicians in India, with an estimated net worth exceeding Rs. 300 crore. Beyond politics, he is an avid sports enthusiast, engaging in cricket and football. A devout Hindu, Shivakumar frequently visits religious shrines. Notably, he is also acknowledged for his philanthropic endeavors, contributing generously to various charities.
Awards and Recognition
His contributions to public life earned Shivakumar the prestigious “Karnataka Ratna” award in 2014, the highest civilian honor bestowed by the Government of Karnataka.
Social Media Presence
Active on social media platforms, Shivakumar uses Facebook and Twitter to connect with his followers, fostering a direct line of communication with the public.
In essence, D. K. Shivakumar’s journey in Karnataka politics reflects resilience, leadership, and a deep-rooted commitment to public service. Despite challenges and controversies, he continues to be a formidable force in shaping the political landscape of the state.
10 facts about DK Shivakumar:
- Doddalahalli Kempegowda Shivakumar, commonly known as DK Shivakumar, is an Indian politician who is currently serving as the Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka and the Minister of Water Resources, Bengaluru Development & Town Planning, and Bengaluru Urban District In-charge.
- Shivakumar was born on May 15, 1962, in Kanakapura, Karnataka, India. He is the eldest son of Doddalahalli Kempegowda and Gowramma.
- Shivakumar completed his Bachelor of Arts degree from Maharaja College, Mysore. He then went on to earn a Bachelor of Law degree from Bangalore University.
- Shivakumar entered politics in the late 1980s, joining the Indian National Congress (INC). He was elected to the Karnataka Legislative Assembly for the first time in 1989, representing the Sathanur constituency.
- Shivakumar lost his seat in the 2004 assembly elections but was re-elected in 2008, this time representing the Kanakapura constituency. He has been re-elected from Kanakapura in every subsequent election, making him an eight-time MLA.
- Shivakumar served as the Cabinet Minister for Energy in the Siddaramaiah government from 2014 to 2019. He was also the Minister for Irrigation in the HD Kumaraswamy government from 2019 to 2020.
- In 2020, Shivakumar was elected President of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), the state unit of the INC. He is the first Vokkaliga politician to hold this position in over four decades.
- Shivakumar is known for his strong grassroots connect and his ability to mobilize voters. He is also a skilled orator and is often referred to as the “Gandhi of Karnataka.”
- Shivakumar has been involved in several controversies throughout his political career. In 2017, he was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on charges of money laundering. He was released on bail after spending nearly 100 days in jail.
- Despite the controversies, Shivakumar remains a popular and influential figure in Karnataka politics. He is seen as a potential contender for the Chief Minister’s post in the future.
