Doddalahalli Kempegowda Shivakumar, commonly known as D. K. Shivakumar, the president of the Karnataka Congress, was sworn in as the 25th Chief Minister of Karnataka at a magnificent event held at the Glass House in Bengaluru’s Lok Bhavan grounds on Wednesday.

Amidst loud shouts from his supporters, Shivakumar made his way to the platform and began by placing floral tributes to the picture of Sri Veera Gangadhara Swamiji, also known as Nonavinakere Ajja, Ajjayya, or Veera Gangadhara Ajja. Following the pledge of loyalty and secrecy, he stepped up to the podium to offer his respects.

With a copy of the Constitution in his hands, Shivakumar swore the oath and invoked Veera Gangadhara Ajja, the well-known spiritual figure he views as his guide.

The ceremony began with the performance of Vande Mataram. The Karnataka State Police Band followed this with the National Anthem. During the procedures, the national anthem was also performed.

Shalini Rajneesh, the Government of Karnataka’s chief secretary, gave the ceremony’s attendees and guests a warm greeting. Shivakumar honoured Siddaramaiah, the departing Chief Minister, by covering his shoulders with a shawl before the formal event started.

AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, Congress leader V. D. Satheesan from Kerala, AICC General Secretary K. C. Venugopal, AICC General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala, and other senior Congress leaders were among the dignitaries present at the event, including Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court Vibhu Bakhru.

Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh asked Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot for permission to continue with the swearing-in ceremony at the beginning.

After the Governor had given his approval, the oath-taking ceremony officially started.

Shivakumar took office as Chief Minister during the ceremony, which also included a sizable gathering of party members and supporters, constitutional authorities, and prominent Congress figures.

The occasion ushered in a new chapter in Karnataka politics.