Shivakumar's First Mysuru Visit as CM to Coincide with PM Modi's Inauguration

The Chief Minister of Karnataka, D.K. Shivakumar, will make his first official visit to Mysuru on Saturday, a trip that coincides with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's programme in the city. This is the first time Mr. Shivakumar is visiting Mysuru after taking over as Chief Minister last month.

According to the itinerary released by the state government, Mr. Shivakumar will begin his visit by offering prayers at the Sri Chamundeshwari Temple on Chamundi Hill at around 11.30 a.m. The temple is one of the most revered shrines in the region and attracts thousands of devotees daily.

After the temple darshan, the Chief Minister will proceed to the Oval Grounds, where the Prime Minister's helicopter is scheduled to land. Mr. Shivakumar will receive Mr. Modi at the venue and accompany him to the Viveka Smaraka on N.S. Road. The Prime Minister will inaugurate the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Youth Centre, a new facility developed by the Ramakrishna Ashrama.

The centre has been established at the premises of the historic Niranjana Mutt, also known as the old Anathalaya. This location holds special significance as Swami Vivekananda is believed to have stayed here during his visit to Mysuru in the late 19th century. The memorial and cultural centre are designed to commemorate his life and teachings, with a focus on youth development and cultural activities.

Following the inauguration, both leaders will attend a public meeting organised by the Ramakrishna Ashrama at the Ramakrishna Vidyashala premises. The meeting is scheduled for around 4.25 p.m. and is expected to be attended by a significant number of devotees and members of the public.

This visit marks a significant moment for Mr. Shivakumar, who assumed the role of Chief Minister after Mr. Siddaramaiah stepped down during a recent leadership change in the state. The decision to visit Mysuru so early in his tenure signals the importance the new government places on the southern region of Karnataka. Mysuru has traditionally been a stronghold for various political parties, and the presence of both the Chief Minister and the Prime Minister on the same platform is being seen as a moment of coordinated governance between the state and central governments.

The Ramakrishna Ashrama has a long history in Mysuru, with several institutions dedicated to education and social service. The new Viveka Smaraka is expected to further the Ashrama's mission by providing a space for cultural events and youth programmes. According to organisers, the centre will host exhibitions, seminars, and workshops related to Swami Vivekananda's philosophy.

Security arrangements have been made in and around the venues to ensure smooth conduct of the events. District authorities have issued traffic advisories for the routes that the leaders will take. The public has been advised to cooperate with the security personnel.