MYSURU: As father and political guru, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is treating younger son Yathindra’s newfound interest in politics with caution. Siddaramaiah recently lost his elder son and political heir Rakesh. Following Rakesh’s death, Yathindra, a doctor by profession, has been visiting CM’s Varuna constituency in Mysuru and interacting with people.
Clarifying that he was not pushing Yathindra into politics, Siddaramaiah told The Sunday Standard how he had a heart-to-heart talk with his son and warned him about the pitfalls of politics.
“When Yathindra came to Mysuru and told me that he wanted to help me with the constituency and interact with people, it came as a shock to me. Yathindra always kept away from public life and maintained a low profile even at home. He leads a regimented life, visiting around five hospitals for laboratory management and working in diagnosing cancer cells.”
Siddaramaiah, who himself had a chequered political life, said, “I advised Yathindra that politics is a bed of thorns and to think deeply before taking the plunge. I advised him to interact extensively with people if he has real interest. Once he comes in contact with people and earns their love and respect, it would be difficult to get out,” he added.
“When I told him that being a doctor he wouldn’t be able to fit in the rough and tumble of politics, he countered asking me why I entered politics and not continue practising as a lawyer. I couldn’t give a convincing reply.”
Siddaramaiah said Yathindra is god-fearing and a strict vegetarian, observes fast on Mondays and does puja every day. “He has the patience to listen to people. Ultimately, people are the masters in democracy and they will decide one’s fate in public life,” signed off Siddaramaiah.