Cardiologist C.N. Manjunath won a significant victory in Bengaluru Rural, defeating three-time MP D.K. Suresh by 2,69,647 votes. Manjunath’s victory broke the stronghold of Suresh and his brother, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. Known for his compassionate nature, Manjunath, a BJP candidate and son-in-law of former PM H.D. Deve Gowda, attracted support from BJP, JD(S), and even some Congress voters. His campaign’s polite demeanor contrasted sharply with the aggressive style of the DK brothers, winning over many hearts.