Tejashwi Yadav is making significant strides in connecting with voters in Bihar, reminiscent of the way his father, Lalu Prasad Yadav, did during his prime. Despite suffering from a back injury and relying on painkillers, Tejashwi is energetically leading his campaign. The NDA has reasons to be concerned as the INDIA bloc, led predominantly by Tejashwi in Bihar, gains momentum in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
At a rally in Bihar's Ara, Tejashwi showcased his wit and humor, echoing his father's style. He cleverly mocked Prime Minister Narendra Modi by listing words starting with 'M' that Modi had used, and humorously added more, which resonated well with the crowd, making them burst into laughter.
Despite his jovial demeanor, Tejashwi is enduring significant pain, relying on painkillers throughout his rigorous campaign schedule. The rally in Ara was one of the 180 rallies he has addressed. Tejashwi has consistently targeted the Modi government over inflation, stating, "Modi ji is obsessed with the letter 'M', but can't even mention the 'M' of mehengai (inflation)."
Tejashwi has been tirelessly touring Bihar, often seen with a stiff back and a gamchha thrown over his shoulder. His energy and charisma have injected new life into the opposition's campaign, overshadowing even veteran leaders like Nitish Kumar.Â
The RJD, a leading force in the INDIA bloc, is contesting 23 of Bihar's 40 Lok Sabha seats. As the alliance's spearhead, Tejashwi has adopted a campaign-style filled with fiery speeches, songs, rhymes, taunts, and innovative uses of technology, drawing parallels to his father, Lalu Prasad Yadav.
In one of his rallies, Tejashwi played old speeches of PM Modi on a portable Bluetooth speaker, highlighting Modi's unfulfilled promises. This innovative approach has helped Tejashwi connect with voters on pressing issues like unemployment and inflation.Â
Tejashwi has set an ambitious target of 300 paar' for the INDIA bloc, challenging the NDA's 400 paar goal. The 2024 elections in Bihar are shaping up to be more intense and closely contested than the 2019 elections, largely due to Tejashwi's dynamic campaign.
He has kept his focus on critical issues like inflation, the caste census, and job creation. Tejashwi has creatively used cultural references and popular songs to criticize the Modi government and rally support. His adaptation of the song "Saajan Chale Sasural" and other Bollywood hits to mock Modi has resonated with the public.
The youthful RJD leader has appealed directly to the youth, promising jobs in exchange for votes, echoing Subhas Chandra Bose's famous slogan from the independence movement. He has also attacked Nitish Kumar for unfulfilled promises and recent political maneuvers, keeping his campaign sharp and focused.
Tejashwi has popularized the catchy campaign sound "khat khat khat khat," using rhyming phrases to reinforce his election message. His ability to engage and entertain while addressing serious issues has made him a formidable force in Bihar's political landscape.
The outcome of the 2024 Lok Sabha election on June 4 will determine the impact of Tejashwi Yadav's efforts. Regardless of the results, his campaign has solidified his position as a significant and influential leader in Bihar's politics, demonstrating a mass connection akin to his father's legacy.
