DK Shivakumar, the Chief Minister of Karnataka, once rode a Yezdi Roadking motorcycle that now sits rusting in a corner of his Sadashivanagar home. The bike, a symbol of his early political and personal journey, has been neglected as his responsibilities grew.
The Bike's History
The Yezdi Roadking was Shivakumar's primary mode of transport during his early days in politics. He used it to travel across Karnataka, connecting with voters and building his political base. Over time, as he ascended the ranks, the motorcycle was parked and eventually forgotten.
According to sources close to the Chief Minister, the bike holds sentimental value but has not been maintained. It now stands as a relic of his past, gathering dust and rust in his residence.
Symbol of Transformation
Shivakumar's journey from a biker to the Chief Minister reflects his deep roots in grassroots politics. The Yezdi Roadking, once a workhorse, now represents the passage of time and the weight of increased responsibilities. It has not been ridden in years, and its condition has deteriorated.
Local residents recall seeing Shivakumar on the bike during his early campaigns. One long-time supporter said, "He was always approachable, riding his bike through narrow lanes. It made him relatable."
Current Status
The bike remains in the Sadashivanagar property, untouched. There are no plans to restore or display it, as the Chief Minister's office has not commented on its future. The Yezdi Roadking, a model popular in the 1970s and 1980s, is now a collector's item, but for Shivakumar, it is a personal memento of a bygone era.
