BJP Nominates Kangana Ranaut From Mandi Lok Sabha Seat

NEW DELHI: In a strategic move reshaping the political landscape of the hill state, the BJP unveiled Kangana Ranaut as its candidate for the Mandi parliamentary seat, while nominating Dr. Rajeev Bhardwaj from Kangra, replacing the incumbent MP Kishan Kapoor.

This announcement adds a captivating twist to the electoral dynamics, aligning with the BJP’s previous nominations of Union Minister Anurag Thakur from Hamirpur and Suresh Kashyap from Shimla.

Kangana’s candidacy hardly surprises political pundits, as the acclaimed actor, a professed admirer of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, had been hinting at a potential political career for over two years. Notably, her presence at the consecration of the Ram temple further fueled speculations.

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A party insider revealed Kangana’s natural suitability for the Mandi constituency, given her roots in the district. Born in a small town within Mandi, her lineage boasts political ties, with her great-grandfather, Sarju Singh Ranaut, serving as an MLA.

Her family’s transition from Congress allegiance to BJP, attributed to Kangana’s influence, underscores her sway in the region.

The timing of Kangana’s nomination, coinciding with her 37th birthday celebrations on March 23, adds an auspicious dimension to her political debut.

Her pilgrimage to the Baglamukhi and Jwala Devi temples in Himachal accentuated the significance of the occasion. This nomination decisively resolves conjectures about Kangana contesting from Chandigarh, where she pursued her education.

The Mandi seat has witnessed significant electoral battles over the past decade, with Congress securing victories in three out of five elections.

Notably, BJP’s stronghold in the region suffered a setback with the tragic demise of Ram Swaroop Sharma in 2021, leading to a Congress win in the subsequent by-election. Currently, BJP holds a dominant position in three out of the four Lok Sabha seats.

Kangana Ranaut’s foray into politics promises to infuse the electoral landscape with a unique blend of celebrity charisma and political fervor, setting the stage for an intriguing contest in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.