Maithra Devi, who died three years ago, is being remembered by Mr Yeddyurappa’s children when their father is becoming chief minister of the State after a 35-year-long political career.

“Our mother would have rejoiced more if she had witnessed this occasion but unfortunately she is not amongst us today,” was the reaction of Ms Umadevi and Mr Vijayendra, Yeddyurappa’s daughter and son.

However, all his three daughters, two sons, their spouses and nine grandchildren, are preparing for a grand family get-together to celebrate the happy moment. Mr Vijayendra, who along with his wife Prema, and three-year-old daughter Maithri , stays with Mr Yeddyurappa, said it was their mother who was the backbone of their family.

“Our father remained short-tempered with all of us when he did not like certain things. However, his anger was short-lived. I believe it is this nature of getting angry for a ‘valid reason’ that has led him to this stage today,” felt Umadevi.

She said though it was their mother who took care of the family, Mr Yeddyurappa never missed an opportunity to join them for a tour.