Karnataka Deputy CM Shivakumar calls himself a 'rock', says people may shape him

Udupi (Karnataka), Aug 30 (PTI) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Saturday described himself as a “rock,” saying people may shape or use him as they wish.

He also prayed to Lord Krishna that no wrong words ever slip from his tongue.

Shivakumar, who is also the Congress state president, recently came in for sharp criticism from his party leaders for his rendition of RSS anthem inside the assembly, forcing him to tender an apology.

Speaking at an event in Sri Krishna Mutt here, he said critics often look for faults in everything he says, but politics should be guided by faith rather than mere performance.

“Some people call me a rock. If you cut a rock, it takes shape; if you worship it, it becomes culture. You can make steps, pillars, statues out of a rock. Likewise, you can use me however you want,” Shivakumar said, adding, “Whatever I speak, people look for mistakes. So I pray to Krishna to ensure I never utter a wrong word.” Releasing a commemorative postal cover of Madhvacharya, the founder of Madhva sect, the Deputy CM underlined that religion, worship and devotion are not for display but for strengthening self-confidence.

Quoting 'Bhagavad Gita', he said faith in India had always been a unifying force, not a rigid identity. PTI GMS ROH