Followers of former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda marked his 94th birthday with celebrations across Hassan city on Monday, with the highlight being a milk and flower abhisheka to a 30-foot cut-out of the JD(S) patriarch at N.R. Circle.

The day began with special prayers at the Neerubagilu Anjaneya Temple, where MLA for Hassan H.P. Swaroop Prakash and supporters sought blessings for their leader and offered coconuts. A group of JD(S) workers also offered prayers at the dargah on Azad Road.

Former Minister H.K. Kumaraswamy, former MLA and district JD(S) president K.S. Lingesh, and other leaders joined the abhisheka, where workers used cranes to pour milk over the towering cut-out before offering flowers. The leaders later visited the Kamadhenu old-age home, where a cake was cut to mark the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Prakash recalled Mr. Gowda’s journey from humble beginnings as a farmer’s son to the country’s highest executive office. “Throughout his career, he worked tirelessly for the welfare of farmers and the poor. His contributions to the State and to Hassan district will never be forgotten,” he said.

Mr. Kumaraswamy described Mr. Gowda as one of the rare politicians who remained grounded and simple despite holding the highest positions and who stayed committed to the welfare of all sections of society.