Somanahalli Mallaiah Krishna, the visionary leader widely credited with transforming Bengaluru into the ‘Silicon Valley of India,’ passed away on Tuesday morning at the age of 92. His death marks the end of an era, leaving behind a profound legacy that continues to shape Karnataka’s technological landscape and economic prosperity.
Krishna’s contribution to Bengaluru’s phenomenal growth is undeniable. His forward-thinking policies and proactive approach to attracting investment laid the groundwork for the city’s meteoric rise as a global tech hub. He understood the potential of information technology long before many others, and his strategic initiatives fostered an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship. The city’s current status as a major player in the global tech scene stands as a testament to his visionary leadership.
Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum, reflecting the widespread respect and admiration for the late leader. Karnataka’s IT Minister, Priyank Kharge, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his condolences, emphasizing that Bengaluru continues to reap the benefits of Krishna’s foresight. Kharge highlighted Krishna’s corporate approach to governance, which proved remarkably effective in shaping Bengaluru’s economic trajectory and securing its place on the world stage.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah shared a deeply personal tribute, describing Krishna as a guiding mentor during his early days in the Congress party. Siddaramaiah emphasized Karnataka’s enduring gratitude for Krishna’s visionary leadership in revolutionizing the IT-BT sector during his tenure as Chief Minister. He underscored the transformative impact of Krishna’s policies, which laid the foundation for Karnataka’s sustained growth in the technology industry.
The grief extends beyond Karnataka’s borders. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu also offered his condolences, recalling a shared commitment to attracting investments to their respective states. Naidu described Krishna as a true leader who consistently prioritized the welfare of his people, underscoring the humanitarian aspect of his leadership beyond his economic achievements.
Further underscoring the nationwide impact of Krishna’s career, Karnataka BJP president B.Y. Vijayendra also joined in expressing grief over the passing of the former Chief Minister, as reported by PTI. The outpouring of condolences from across party lines underlines the lasting impression Krishna made on Indian politics and his significant contributions to the nation’s technological advancement. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of leaders and entrepreneurs.
The passing of S.M. Krishna marks not just the loss of a prominent political figure but also the loss of a visionary architect who fundamentally reshaped the landscape of India’s technological future. His enduring impact on Bengaluru and Karnataka will be felt for generations to come.
