The upcoming Lok Sabha by-election in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh is a fierce battle between two Bhojpuri filmstars - sitting MP Ravi Kishan from BJP and actress Kajal Nishad from SP. With a total of 13 candidates in the running, including BSP's Javed Simnani, experts predict that the main fight is between the ruling BJP and the opposition SP. While Kishan is riding on his film success and the backing of PM Narendra Modi and CM Yogi Adityanath, Nishad is challenging him in a dramatic filmy style, claiming to be the "daughter-in-law of the people" and a true representative of Gorakhpur.
Gorakhpur By-election: Bollywood Stars Clash in Fierce Electoral Battle
The upcoming Lok Sabha by-election in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, has turned into a glamourous clash between two Bhojpuri film stars: sitting MP Ravi Kishan from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and actress Kajal Nishad from the opposition Samajwadi Party (SP).
Background
The by-election was necessitated by the resignation of Yogi Adityanath, the incumbent Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, who vacated the Gorakhpur seat to focus on state affairs. Adityanath had won the seat in the 2014 and 2019 general elections with overwhelming margins.
Candidates and Contest
A total of 13 candidates are in the fray, including Javed Simnani from the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). However, the main contest is widely seen as being between Ravi Kishan and Kajal Nishad.
Ravi Kishan, a popular Bhojpuri actor known for his macho roles, is seeking a second term in the Lok Sabha. He is banking on his film success and the support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Kajal Nishad, on the other hand, is a newcomer to politics. She is portraying herself as a "daughter-in-law of the people" and claims to be a genuine representative of Gorakhpur. Nishad has been drawing large crowds at her rallies, particularly among women and young voters.
Campaign Style
Both Kishan and Nishad have adopted dramatic campaigning styles. Kishan is focusing on door-to-door visits, roadshows, and public meetings. He has also released a Bhojpuri film, "Ravi Kishan v/s Jaan Ki Baazi," which he stars in and promotes his political message.
Nishad, on the other hand, has been using social media extensively and has organized a series of "janata darbars" (public meetings) where she interacts directly with voters. She has also launched a catchy campaign slogan: "Bhaiyya ka janta, bhabhi ka banta" (brother's public, sister-in-law's right).
Top 5 FAQs
1. Who is the current MP for Gorakhpur?
Ravi Kishan from the BJP
2. Why is the Gorakhpur by-election being held?
Yogi Adityanath, the former MP, resigned to focus on his role as Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh.
3. Who are the main candidates in the by-election?
Ravi Kishan (BJP) and Kajal Nishad (SP)
4. When is the by-election being held?
March 3, 2022
5. What is the significance of the by-election?
It is seen as a test of the popularity of the BJP government and the political clout of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
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