Bangalore:
The first thing you would notice about Karnataka's new Chief Minister is his smile. Devaragunda Venkappa Sadananda Gowda is a contrast to his predecessor B S Yeddyurappa who could be very stern and autocratic - and has been seen in tears in public.
Gowda on the other hand seems to get along with everybody, and with life in general. He is close to Yeddyurappa and non-confrontational - the reason for his elevation to the post of Karnataka's Chief Minister - something that would have been unthinkable a short while ago.
Fifty eight-year-old Gowda, who was elected as Member of Parliament from Udupi Chikmagalur, was earlier a non-controversial state party president. He has also been an MLA and deputy Opposition leader.
Mr Gowda is not a Lingayat like Yeddyurappa, but a Vokkaliga - another dominant group in Karnataka.
Gowda has a law degree - and was a sportsman in college. The affable leader lists chatting with family and friends among his interests. He has one son - and so far no allegations against him of corruption and nepotism that led to Yeddyurappa's ouster.
There are two years left before the next Assembly elections are scheduled in Karnataka - and the BJP would hope that after the high drama of the Yeddyurappa regime - it is time to smile again.