'Disgusting': D.K. Shivakumar throws a half-eaten apple at party workers during his Kanakapura Tour; gets trolled

A video of Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar biting apples from a garland and tossing them into a crowd has gone viral on social media, drawing mixed reactions from users online.

The video was recorded during Shivakumar's visit to Horahalli in Kanakapura, where he received a grand welcome from supporters. As part of the reception, local residents presented him with a massive Gajamala — a large garland made of fresh apples and flowers.

In the viral clip, Shivakumar is seen plucking an apple from the garland, taking a bite, and then throwing it towards the cheering crowd gathered at the venue. Supporters responded enthusiastically, with several people attempting to catch the fruit as it was tossed into the air.

According to Shivakumar's office, the apple garland was arranged by local residents as a gesture of appreciation and support during his visit to the region.

Viral Video Draws Criticism

The video has since sparked debate online. While supporters described the act as a light-hearted and affectionate interaction with the public, critics questioned the optics of throwing partially eaten food into a crowd.

One social media user wrote, "Does DK Shivakumar think he's a deity? Taking a bite out of an apple garland like it's bhog and handing it out to the public... what kind of logic is this?"

Another user joked, "Forget election tickets, the real competition was for that one bite of apple!"

Others were more critical. One user commented, "Honestly, this isn't leadership; it's a feudal leftover treating people like pets. Tossing a half-eaten, saliva-soaked apple into a crowd and watching them scramble — pure cringe, straight out of a monarchy playbook."

Another wrote, "Just disgusting and degrading to the entire nation... spreading his filthy mouth bacteria everywhere. Why are people voting for this demagogue?"

The video continues to circulate widely, generating both support and criticism over Shivakumar's gesture during the public event.