Exclusive|Kodagu Native Deepak Thimaya Emerges As Frontrunner For D.K. Shivakumar's Media Advisor Post ?: Sources

A File Photo of Deepak Thimaya with DK Shivakumar.

Bengaluru: Senior journalist and Kodagu native Deepak Thimaya has emerged as one of the frontrunners for the influential post of Media Advisor to the Chief Minister, according to sources in the Congress party who spoke to The Kodagu Express.

The development comes amid indications of a leadership transition in Karnataka, with Congress sources suggesting that Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar could soon assume the office of Chief Minister. If that happens, the appointment of a Media Advisor is expected to be among the key decisions taken by the new administration.

Sources told The Kodagu Express that three individuals are being considered for the position. While Deepak Thimaya is said to be leading the race, senior Kannada journalist Hameed Palya and Thyagaraj, who currently serves as a media secretary to Shivakumar, are also being considered for the role.

Deepak Thimaya formally joined the Congress party in 2024 and was appointed Political and Media Secretary to Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president D.K. Shivakumar. Belonging to the Biddatanda family of Kodagu, Thimaya built his reputation as a television presenter and producer, particularly during his stint with Udaya TV, where he was associated with interview, quiz and debate programmes. He also founded Verbatle, an organisation known for conducting debating competitions and public speaking events.

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Congress insiders said Thimaya has enjoyed a close working relationship with Shivakumar for several years. Even before formally joining the party, he was widely perceived to be among the senior Congress leader's trusted advisers on communication and media-related matters. However, party sources noted that both Hameed Palya and Thyagaraj are also close associates of Shivakumar and have been actively involved in his media and communications team.

The post of Media Advisor to the Chief Minister is considered one of the most influential positions in the Chief Minister's Office. The advisor plays a key role in shaping the government's public messaging, coordinating media outreach, advising on communication strategy, handling crisis communications, and serving as a bridge between the government and the media. The position is often accorded Cabinet rank and carries significant influence within the administration.

If appointed, Thimaya would become one of the highest-ranking Kodava personalities in the state's communication and governance structure and possibly the first Kodava from Kodagu to hold the post of Media Advisor to the Chief Minister.

Meanwhile, Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna, who currently serves as Legal Advisor to the Chief Minister, is also expected to remain influential in the new dispensation. Sources indicated that he is likely to continue in an advisory role and could even be considered for additional responsibilities, although no decision has been made so far.

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