Bengaluru, July 19 (IANS) Union Minister for Food and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi, representing the Central government, paid his last respects to Chennamma, wife of former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, at the family’s residence in Padmanabhanagar, here on Sunday.
Joshi, who arrived in Bengaluru on Sunday morning, travelled directly from the airport to Deve Gowda’s residence to offer floral tributes to Chennamma’s mortal remains on behalf of the Union government.
He also met former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda and Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy and conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s condolences to the bereaved family.
“The Prime Minister has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the entire family. I pray that God gives them the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” Joshi said.
Speaking to reporters after paying his respects, Joshi described Chennamma as a source of strength for the Deve Gowda family and remembered her for her simplicity and exemplary life.
“Chennamma was a pillar of support to former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda and his family. Despite her husband serving as Chief Minister and Prime Minister, and her children occupying high public offices, she continued to lead a simple and humble life. Her personality and values are an inspiration to society,” he said.
Calling her an ideal homemaker, Joshi said Chennamma remained grounded throughout her life and set an example for future generations.
“She was the epitome of simplicity. Her life serves as a model for society. It is my privilege to pay my last respects to her today as a representative of the Central government and on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” he added.
Joshi concluded by praying for eternal peace for Chennamma’s soul and extending his sympathies to her family members, admirers, and well-wishers.
Chennamma, wife of Deve Gowda, passed away on Saturday at the age of 85 following prolonged health complications. Her mortal remains have been kept at the family’s Padmanabhanagar residence to enable the public to pay their last respects before the final rites.
–IANS
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