Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar's Yezdi Roadking motorcycle, once a symbol of his youthful days, now sits rusting in a corner of his Sadashivanagar residence, a testament to his evolving political journey. The bike, a classic 350cc model from the 1970s, accompanied him through his early years as a grassroots worker and later as a rising leader in Karnataka politics.
The Yezdi Roadking: A Symbol of Humble Beginnings
Shivakumar acquired the Yezdi Roadking in the early 1980s, using it to traverse the rural landscapes of Kanakapura and Ramanagara districts. According to close aides, the bike was his primary mode of transport for attending public meetings and party events. "He would ride it for hours, often through rough terrain, to connect with voters," said a party worker familiar with his early career.
The motorcycle, known for its rugged build and distinctive roar, became a familiar sight in the region. Shivakumar often recalls how the bike helped him build a rapport with the masses, allowing him to reach remote villages that lacked proper roads. "It was more than a vehicle; it was a tool for service," he once said in an interview.
From Biker to Chief Minister: The Shift in Priorities
As Shivakumar's political stature grew, so did his responsibilities. After becoming a minister in the Congress government, he shifted to official vehicles, and the Yezdi Roadking was gradually sidelined. The bike, which once covered thousands of kilometers, was parked in a corner of his Sadashivanagar home, where it eventually began to rust.
A source close to the family revealed that the bike has not been started in over a decade. "It's a relic of his past, but he refuses to part with it. It holds sentimental value," the source said. The bike's dilapidated state contrasts sharply with Shivakumar's current lifestyle, which includes luxury cars and security convoys.
Preserving a Legacy: Calls for Restoration
Enthusiasts and party supporters have urged Shivakumar to restore the Yezdi Roadking, viewing it as a piece of Karnataka's political history. Some have even offered to fund the restoration. However, Shivakumar has reportedly shown little interest, preferring to let the bike remain as it is. "It reminds me of my roots," he said in a recent interaction.
The bike's story reflects the broader narrative of many politicians who transition from humble beginnings to positions of power. For Shivakumar, the Yezdi Roadking is not just a motorcycle but a chapter of his life that he chooses to preserve in its original, weathered state.
Impact and Symbolism
The Yezdi Roadking's journey from a workhorse to a rusted artifact symbolizes the passage of time and the weight of political office. Shivakumar's attachment to the bike, despite its condition, underscores his connection to his past. Political analysts note that such stories humanize leaders and resonate with the public, especially in a state where motorcycles are a common mode of transport.
As Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister, Shivakumar continues to draw on his early experiences, but the Yezdi Roadking remains a silent witness to his rise. Whether it will ever roar again on Karnataka's roads is uncertain, but its place in the state's political lore is secure.
