Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has extended a political invitation to renowned Kannada movie star Shiva Rajkumar for the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Addressing the 'Eidiga' community convention in Bengaluru, Shivakumar expressed his encouragement for Shiva Rajkumar to consider contesting from any constituency within Karnataka for the Lok Sabha.

"I've encouraged Shiva Rajkumar to enter the Lok Sabha fray by contesting from any constituency in Karnataka; it's a remarkable opportunity for anyone," stated Shivakumar during the Sunday event."I advised Shiva Rajkumar to prepare for the upcoming Parliamentary elections, emphasizing that while the world of movies remains open to him at any time, the opportunity to enter Parliament is a unique honor not bestowed upon everyone. I urged him not to overlook such a significant opportunity that has presented itself," conveyed the Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister.

In response to the proposition, Shiva Rajkumar, a highly regarded personality in the Kannada film industry and the eldest son of the legendary actor Dr. Rajkumar, expressed his gratitude with humility. He articulated, "The gift my father bestowed upon me was the ability to don various roles on screen and captivate all of you. However, my inclination remains within the realm of acting. There are dedicated individuals in the political arena who are already making commendable contributions, and I choose to remain committed to my craft and the audience."

However, Shiva Rajkumar, currently engrossed in multiple projects with several movies in his pipeline, has not yet confirmed his acceptance of the political proposition.

As the son of the legendary actor Dr Rajkumar, Shiva Rajkumar holds a superstar status in Karnataka and maintains a close association with the Congress Party. Sources indicate a potential party affiliation in the near future. Notably, Shiva Rajkumar's brother-in-law, Madhu Bangarappa, serves as the Education Minister of Karnataka.

Adding to the family's political involvement, Shiva Rajkumar's wife, Geeta Shiv Rajkumar, joined the Congress party preceding the April Assembly elections this year.

Meanwhile, DK Shivakumar, also the President of Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), is actively working towards securing at least 20 seats for the Congress party from Karnataka in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, aiming to showcase the party's strength following a resounding victory earlier this year.