Dr. Aishwariya Pandit Sharma and Priya Sehgal on “Historically Speaking” learn about the key contenders, their backgrounds, and what sets them apart in the race to lead India.
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Why “The Contenders”?
Let me share a little secret with our viewers. You asked why I named my book “The Contenders.” Well, I had some help from Aishwarya and Karthik, who helped me distinguish the pretenders from the true contenders.
I named it “The Contenders” because the first edition, published in 2019, came out just before the elections. Elections always bring a race for the Prime Minister’s position. So, contenders are those vying for the top post, though not all of them are at the Prime Ministerial level. We left it at contenders in the political arena, focusing on who will lead India tomorrow.
We selected a group of leaders in their mid-40s to early 50s, using 55 as a cutoff age. This shows they have reached a certain level but haven’t yet peaked, making them contenders in that sense.
Noteworthy Contenders
I’m sure this book is close to your heart because you’ve researched and worked with these people. Some contenders stand out for their ability to overcome barriers, surprise you at different times, and exceed expectations. Even though politics is unpredictable, certain contenders really stand out. Who do you see as constant figures, even if you were to write another edition of the book?
In this book, the author delves into the intricate journeys of prominent Indian political leaders, with a special focus on Akhilesh Yadav. As the son of Mulayam Singh Yadav, Akhilesh had a tumultuous rise to power. The author reflects on Akhilesh’s journey, noting that “he’s a Dynast, but unlike other Dynasts, Akhilesh is someone who had to fight for his legacy, fight his father for it, and really build his way onto the platform, so he is a little different from other dynasts.”
Akhilesh Yadav’s Struggle and Modernization Efforts
The comparison between Akhilesh Yadav and Tejaswi Yadav, sons of influential leaders with a national presence, is evident in their political journeys. While writing the book, the author pondered whether these sons could fill their fathers’ substantial shoes.
“Yes, it was big shoes to fit in, but there’s a little difference. Tejaswi was Lalu’s favourite son, but here Mulayam did not want to make Akhilesh his heir. He was, in fact, competing with Akhilesh for the throne, finally for the presidency of the Samajwadi Party, when Akhilesh had to literally fight for it and snatch it.”
This fierce battle for leadership set the stage for Akhilesh to modernize the party, introducing technology and distancing it from its previous “Gunda Party” image. His first major decision was to deny a ticket to DP Yadav, showcasing a significant shift in the party’s direction.
Yogi Adityanath’s Law and Order Reforms
The author also examines Yogi Adityanath’s tenure as Chief Minister, highlighting his firm stance on law and order. Yogi, a five-time MP, has enforced strict policies, including measures like the Love Jihad and Romeo squads, reflecting his “no-nonsense” image.
The author describes him as a “not so reluctant fundamentalist because he is unapologetic about the message that he’s sending out.” Yogi’s second term has seen him solidifying his role, possibly eyeing a more significant position, with his governance still rooted in Hindutva principles.
Himanta Biswa Sarma’s Political Leap
The book also covers Himanta Biswa Sarma’s remarkable transition from the Congress party to becoming the Chief Minister of Assam under the BJP. The author recalls predicting his rise to Chief Minister, noting that Sarma’s strength lies in being an insider. “He spent 23 years in Congress but after 23 years, I see Gogoi’s son coming in, this young kid, and I am told to teach him, to show him the ropes, take him around, and he says, ‘I am not here to groom your son.’ He was eyeing the chair. That was really his last straw.” Now, as a prominent BJP leader, Sarma’s hunger for power is evident, contrasting with the complacency often seen in dynastic politics.
The Gandhi Siblings: Rahul and Priyanka
The dynamics between Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi also receive significant attention. The author contrasts their political styles, stating, “Priyanka is very feisty; she is very instinctive as a politician, while Rahul is a calculated one. Priyanka speaks more from the heart, while Rahul is more from a studied response.” This difference could lead to internal clashes within the party, especially with Priyanka’s rising ambition.
Arvind Kejriwal: The Argumentative Indian
Arvind Kejriwal’s position in the political landscape has shifted over the years. Once seen as a strong contender against Modi, Kejriwal’s focus has narrowed to Delhi amid legal troubles. The author points out that Kejriwal’s party operates under a one-man model, implying that without him, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) might struggle to survive. “Kejriwal is not a dynastic leader, but his party is under one man model, so without him, AAP will flounder. So, I don’t think AAP will remain; I think they will probably join the Congress or the BJP.”
This book offers an in-depth look at the complex journeys of India’s political leaders, highlighting the challenges and transformations they have faced. Through meticulous research and personal insights, the author provides a comprehensive understanding of the evolving political landscape, making it an essential read for those interested in Indian politics.
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