Emerging out of Gowda's residence here, Sharief said he would like to work with him, but that doesn't mean he would join JDS today itself. "I do not have any greed for elections."
Describing Gowda as a secular leader and a "good friend", the former Union minister said there was a need to strengthen the fabric of secular forces.
"I am going on a pilgrimage to Mecca. When I am visiting God's mansion, I have left some decisions for Him to make for me," he said on his next move.
Sharief said he did not know who in the Congress decided to deny him a ticket. "Whoever has taken the decision, it's okay. There is no difficulty for me."
An eight-time Lok Sabha member, Sharief had yesterday indicated that he was keeping open the option of joining JDS. Ignoring Sharief's claim, Congress has plumped for Youth Congress wing chief Rizwan Arshad for Bangalore Central seat.
Earlier, Gowda said his partymen had contacted Sharief and since he is one of the most seniormost leaders in Karnataka, the party would take care to give him ticket to contest from a safe constituency. However, the final decision will be taken by Sharief, he added.