The election fever is high across the nation, with every politician striving to make their mark on the ground. They harness every form of campaigning, including the powerful reach of social media. Recently, a visit to these platforms would reveal numerous trending videos of a leader from Rajasthan - Ravindra Bhati. Currently an independent MLA from the Shiv assembly of Barmer, he's contesting in the Lok Sabha elections.
Thousands flocked to hear and see Bhati at his roadshows and gatherings. His electoral challenge in Barmer Lok Sabha against Union Minister Kailash Choudhary put him squarely in the spotlight. The massive crowds at Bhati's nomination were a testament to his rising popularity, with images flooding newspapers and TV channels, catapulting him to one of the most talked-about candidates this election season.
Why Ravindra Bhati is campaigning in other cities
Bhati's influence extends well beyond Barmer. He's been actively campaigning across the nation, and his social media videos are gaining impressive traction. Asked why he canvasses in other towns when he's to contest in Barmer, Bhati responds, "I hail from the Marwar region, where many are engaged in business as migrants in cities like Ahmedabad, Surat, Bangalore, Mumbai, Hyderabad. They remain politically active and contribute to regional development. I visited to seek their support."
Indeed, during his tours of major cities such as Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Mumbai, amidst campaign rallies, Bhati received overwhelming support, as evidenced by the videos shared on his social media account.
Who is Ravindra Bhati?
Source: aajtak
From the humble village of Doodhoda in Barmer, Ravindra Singh Bhati comes from a simple family, with his father being an educator. With no prior political background, Bhati began his educational journey at a local government school and completed his intermediary education in a school in the city of Barmer. He then pursued higher education at Jai Narain Vyas University in Jodhpur, where he embarked on student politics as a member of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). Post-graduation, Bhati completed his law studies.
From student leader to people's favorite
Ravindra Singh Bhati came into limelight when he successfully led his friend Arvind Singh Bhati to victory in the Jai Narain Vyas University student union elections as president. Bhati later plunged into state politics, joining BJP and demanding a ticket for the Shiv assembly seat in the Rajasthan assembly elections 2023.
Independent Victory after BJP Denial
Despite his BJP background, Bhati won the assembly election as an independent from the Shiv constituency, after BJP favored another candidate. His rebel campaign drew considerable crowds and consumed the headlines, with BJP's concern palpably mounting.
Bhati's Challenge to BJP
Bhati's independent candidacy poses a direct threat to BJP candidate Kailash Choudhary on the Barmer seat. As a former ABVP member who ideologically aligns with BJP, Bhati's supporters largely encompass BJP workers and voters, thus potentially slicing into the party's vote share.
