Mysuru: Amid blessings from seers, applause from admirers and emotional tributes from well-wishers, former chairperson of Karnataka state credit co-operative societies federation Lalitha GT Devegowda was felicitated on Friday.However, the event has led to speculation in the political circles that former minister and Chamundeshwari MLA GT Devegowda, who has fallen out with JD(S), mainly Union minister HD Kumaraswamy in particular, is preparing for his wife Lalitha to contest the Assembly polls. While he has stated that he will not give up the Chamundeshwari segment and will contest from JD(S), in a surprising move, he held a grand felicitation event titled ‘Lalithabhinandana’ at KSOU convocation hall in Muktagangothri to honour Lalitha, who recently got the prestigious Sahakara Ratna state-level award.It is also speculated that he is likely to seek a ticket to field her from Chamundeshwari or Hunsur Assembly segment, which is now represented by his son GD Harish Gowda. Harish Gowda did not attend the event, while many family members and Devegowda’s supporters were in attendance.Recalling her journey, she said she gradually stepped into public life when her husband entered electoral politics and noted that party workers often approached her with their grievances. Speaking on the occasion, Nirmalanandanatha swami of Adichunchanagiri mutt praised Lalitha for successfully balancing social service and family responsibilities.The gathering witnessed an emotional moment when Devegowda was invited to speak. Overcome with emotion, he broke down while recalling his life journey. Regaining composure, he credited Lalitha for raising their three children and supporting the family through every phase of life.
