Chief Minister-designate D K Shivakumar’s appeal to supporters not to put up banners and posters appears to have had little impact, with congratulatory flexes and hoardings emerging across Bengaluru ahead of his swearing-in ceremony.
Printing businesses across the city reported an unprecedented surge in orders, with many saying they were forced to stop accepting new bookings after reaching full capacity.
Printers overwhelmed by demand
According to printing service providers, orders began pouring in even before the official announcement of the leadership transition.
Manjunath, owner of a printing unit in Rajarajeshwari Nagar, said his company received orders for nearly 500 banners within a week.
He described it as the biggest demand his business had ever witnessed for a single political event, surpassing even the volume recorded during the Chief Minister’s swearing-in ceremony in 2023.
Banners dominate key city locations
Large congratulatory flexes and banners appeared at several prominent locations, including Vidhana Soudha, Mekhri Circle, Chalukya Circle, Queen’s Road, Kanakapura Road and Nayandahalli Junction.
Printing firms reported that the most sought-after formats included large circular flexes and oversized rectangular banners costing between ₹10,000 and ₹15,000 each.
Some areas also witnessed the installation of digital hoardings celebrating Shivakumar’s elevation to the state’s top post.
Legal concerns fail to deter orders
Several printing operators acknowledged that flex banners continue to face legal restrictions. However, they said influential clients and supporters continued placing orders despite the regulations.
Some printing units located on Bengaluru’s outskirts reportedly received significant business, with operators claiming that supporters preferred locations away from Greater Bengaluru Authority monitoring.
Industry representatives said many orders came not directly from political leaders but from friends, supporters and well-wishers eager to celebrate the occasion.
Celebrations mark leadership transition
The large-scale display of banners reflects the enthusiasm among Shivakumar’s supporters as he formally assumes office as Karnataka Chief Minister after decades in public life and years of organisational leadership within the Congress.
While authorities continue to discourage unauthorised displays, the celebrations have transformed several parts of Bengaluru and neighbouring regions into a sea of congratulatory messages.