Evergreen leader of the nation.... Golden man.....Dev Anand of Indian politics.....Jiyo hazaro saal.....cutting across party lines, leaders from across the country gathered on a common platform in Bangalore on Friday, to shower praises and felicitate former chief minister and State Samajwadi Party President S Bangarappa, on his 75th birthday.

The huge dais with golden stars shinning from dark backdrop, “Sarekoppada Bangara” written in huge lettering was the centre of attraction at the venue of the celebrations - Kanteerava Indoor Stadium.
On the dais were the chief guests - who included three former chief ministers from
various states, two renowned cine actresses, MPs, legislators and litterateurs. And facing them were thousands of wellwishers of Mr Bangarappa.

The entire stadium was packed, with every seat
occupied by hordes of Mr Bangarappa’s supporters from across the state, particularly from his home
district - Shimoga.

 Unmindful of the incessant rain that lashed the city since early morning, they made a beeline to the venue.

Touch of glamour
Actress-turned-politicians Jaya Bachchan and Jayapradha added a touch of glamour to the function.
The welcome speech was given by Mr Bangarappa’s teacher Dr D Javaregowda, and the citation read by litterateur Chandrashekar Kambar. Another noted litterateur, Ham Pa Nagarajaiah, delivered the felicitation speech.
Four commemorative volumes on the life and times of the leader were launched. Mr Bangarappa was compared to gold, whose value always increases with time.

Hat-trick hero Shivarajkumar, who is the son-in-law of Mr Bangarappa, made a brief appearance at the function, much to the delight of the crowd. He also sang a few lines from his hit movie Jogi.

At one point during the four-hour long function, Mr Bangarappa donned the role of a compere.
“Mr Mulayam Singh will be leaving now as he has to return to New Delhi. But the function will continue, Jayapradha will speak next and after that Rajashekaran. I will speak last.  I am craving to give a long speech. Please stay. Lunch will be served only after my speech,” he said in his characteristic no-nonsense style.

Son absent
The former chief minister’s eldest son Kumar Bangarappa was conspicuous by his absence. However, Mr Bangarappa showered praises on his other son Madhu, who was felicitated on the occasion.
“He is being felicitated not because he is my son, but for the dedicated work he has done”, Mr
Bangarappa said.