HD Kumaraswamy, known as the 'kingmaker' of Karnataka politics, served as Chief Minister of Karnataka from 2018 to 2019 and from 2006 to 2007. He is contesting the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from the Mandya constituency, which his son Nikhil lost to actor Sumalatha in 2019.

The son of former Indian Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda, HD Kumaraswamy is also a Kannada film producer and actor. He has produced several successful Kannada films, including 'Chandra Chakori', which ran for an impressive 365 days in theatres. In 2016, his banner also produced his son's debut movie, 'Jaguar'.

In the latest episode of the ANI podcast with Smita Prakash, HDK sheds light on his alliance with the BJP and his past connections with the Gandhi family. He dismisses Congress' accusations of being the BJP's 'B-team'. He also talks about his father's relationship with PM Modi and how it influenced both parties to ally.

HDK touches on the topic of succession within the party and who will lead after Deve Gowda. The former Chief Minister of Karnataka denies allegations of JD(S) merging with the BJP after the 2024 polls. The upcoming Lok Sabha elections are crucial for JD(S), which is facing decline and setbacks in its Vokkaliga stronghold.