20-May-2025,06:10 PM In a gesture symbolizing respect across party lines, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Monday extended his heartfelt birthday greetings to former Prime Minister Deve Gowda, hailing his significant contributions to Indian politics and governance. The message, which has since gained wide media coverage, lauded Deve Gowda’s leadership, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to democratic ideals.
This occasion brought attention not only to the personal rapport between two seasoned leaders but also to the enduring influence of Deve Gowda, who remains a respected figure in India’s political landscape even decades after serving as the country’s 11th Prime Minister.
Deve Gowda: A Veteran Statesman Celebrated Across Party Lines
Legacy That Transcends Political Divides
Deve Gowda has had a remarkable political journey spanning over six decades. Rising from the grassroots of Karnataka politics to occupy the highest office in India, his leadership is often praised for its humility, grassroots orientation, and focus on rural development. Born on May 18, 1933, in Haradanahalli, Hassan district of Karnataka, he turned 91 this year.
On his birthday, Vice President Dhankhar wrote:
“Warm birthday greetings to former Prime Minister Shri H.D. Deve Gowda Ji. A leader with deep democratic values, his decades-long service to the nation continues to inspire.”
The tweet was met with praise from netizens and political commentators who appreciated the dignified tone and bipartisan spirit of the message. This gesture reminded many of how politics, despite ideological differences, can still uphold mutual respect and acknowledgment of service.
Deve Gowda’s Role in Indian Politics: More Than a Former Prime Minister
From Karnataka Assembly to Parliament and PMO
Deve Gowda began his political career in 1962 as an independent candidate to the Karnataka Legislative Assembly. Over the years, he joined the Indian National Congress, later shifting to the Janata Dal, and played a key role in regional as well as national politics. His brief but impactful tenure as Prime Minister (1996–1997) saw him emphasize consensus-building and federal cooperation.
His political career reflects a deep concern for:
Agricultural Reforms
Water Resource Management
Decentralized Governance
Rural Development
Even after stepping down as PM, Deve Gowda has remained an active parliamentarian and elder statesman, frequently voicing his views on national issues, especially those concerning federalism, farmers’ rights, and regional representation.
Political Leaders Pay Homage to Deve Gowda’s Service
Pan-India Wishes Pour In on Social Media
Vice President Dhankhar’s message was just one of many public tributes that poured in. Political leaders from all spectrums, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leaders like Mallikarjun Kharge, and regional party heads such as M.K. Stalin and Mamata Banerjee, also sent their best wishes to Deve Gowda.
Here are a few notable greetings:
PM Narendra Modi: “Birthday greetings to former PM Shri Deve Gowda Ji. His contribution to India’s development, particularly in the areas of agriculture and rural empowerment, is immense.”
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge: “Warm wishes to former PM Shri Deve Gowda Ji. His journey from humble beginnings to the Prime Ministership is a story of determination and dedication.”
M.K. Stalin: “On his birthday, we salute Shri Deve Gowda for being a torchbearer of secular, federal politics.”
These greetings highlight Deve Gowda‘s enduring relevance and the respect he commands even among political opponents.
Deve Gowda’s Continued Influence in Regional and National Affairs
Elder Statesman Still Making an Impact
While Deve Gowda is no longer at the helm of government, he remains an active Rajya Sabha MP representing Karnataka. His speeches in the Upper House often reflect a rare blend of political acumen and lived experience, making him one of the most listened-to voices on topics ranging from national integration to agriculture policy.
Recently, he addressed the importance of fair federal allocation of resources and voiced his concerns regarding the centralization of power. Despite health challenges, he continues to attend key sessions and committee meetings.
In Karnataka, his son H.D. Kumaraswamy, also a former Chief Minister, carries forward the political legacy of the Gowda family under the banner of Janata Dal (Secular). However, Deve Gowda himself remains the ideological compass of the party.
VP Dhankhar’s Gesture: A Moment of Bipartisanship in a Polarized Climate
Politics of Respect: A Vanishing Tradition?
In an age where political discourse often descends into acrimony, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s gracious birthday message to Deve Gowda stands out. Analysts view the gesture as a reminder of how Indian democracy has always held room for civil disagreement paired with personal respect.
Political analyst Rajdeep Roy remarked:
“It’s gestures like these that keep the soul of democracy alive. Deve Gowda has always upheld parliamentary decorum, and Dhankhar’s message is a nod to that.”
Such moments, though symbolic, serve as a template for the kind of political dialogue needed in India today—one where ideological differences do not devolve into personal animosity.
Conclusion: Deve Gowda’s Legacy as a Beacon of Indian Democracy
At 91, Deve Gowda continues to be a living testament to the strength of grassroots democracy in India. His journey—from a modest agricultural background to the Prime Minister’s Office—remains one of inspiration, grit, and unwavering dedication.
Vice President Dhankhar’s birthday greeting is not merely a ceremonial message but a tribute to a man whose life work has helped shape modern India in countless quiet ways. As the country continues to evolve, voices like Deve Gowda’s offer wisdom, caution, and vision—traits that are perhaps more needed now than ever before.
Source: ANI
