Tributes poured in from across political and public life following the passing of prominent industrialist Mohan Lal Mittal and veteran Congress leader Bheemanna Khandre, with leaders recalling their contributions to industry, public service and the values that shaped their long public journeys.
ML Mittal passed away on January 16, 2026, triggering an outpouring of condolence messages, including from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a message shared on social media, the Prime Minister described Mittal as a distinguished figure in industry who was deeply passionate about Indian culture and committed to philanthropic efforts aimed at societal progress. He noted that he would cherish their interactions and extended condolences to Mittal’s family and admirers.
Beyond his industrial career, Mittal was widely remembered for sharing rare personal recollections of Prime Minister Modi’s early years, long before he rose to national prominence. Mittal had first met Modi in 1998 during a United Nations-linked programme in New York focused on poverty alleviation and the philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.” Their professional interaction evolved into a long association rooted in shared ideas of service and austerity.
In recollections shared earlier on social media platforms, Mittal had spoken of Modi’s disciplined lifestyle, simplicity and self-reliance during overseas visits and political assignments. These anecdotes, frequently cited in public discourse, highlighted habits such as early rising, frugal living arrangements and a consistent avoidance of personal comforts, even as responsibilities increased.
Mittal’s passing was described as a loss not only to the business community but also to those who valued his reflections on leadership shaped by restraint and humility. His stories offered insight into formative years that, for many, added a personal dimension to a public life.
Meanwhile, Karnataka witnessed widespread mourning following the death of senior Congress leader and former minister Bheemanna Khandre, who passed away on January 16 at the age of 102 due to age-related issues. A prominent Lingayat leader from the Bidar region, Khandre was a four-time MLA from Balki, a two-time MLC, and had served as Transport Minister in 1992. He also held the position of president of the All India Veerashaiva Lingayat Mahasabha.
Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, expressed grief, describing Khandre as a freedom fighter, educationist and committed Congressman who dedicated his life to the service of the nation and the people of Karnataka. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge recalled Khandre as a principled leader who played a key role in the freedom struggle and Karnataka’s unification movement, calling his demise an irreparable loss to the state.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah described Khandre as a leader who lived by his principles and acknowledged his role in ensuring Bidar district remained part of Karnataka. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and BJP state president B.Y. Vijayendra also expressed condolences, reflecting the cross-party respect commanded by Khandre’s long public life.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah travelled to Bidar to attend the final rites, as leaders across party lines remembered Khandre’s contribution to public life, social movements, and legislative service.
The passing of Mittal and Khandre marks the loss of two distinct yet intersecting legacies, one rooted in industry and personal influence, the other in electoral politics and mass movements, both shaped by enduring commitment to public values.
