Undertaking Padayatras has been a time-tested formula for political leaders across the country to win the trust of the people. TDP scion and heir apparent of Nara Chandrababu Naidu, Nara Lokesh did exactly the same when the party was in crisis, but amidst numerous emotional and physical challenges like no other politician. The historic Padayatra which commenced from Nara family’s home turf Kuppam in January 2023 culminated nearly 11 months later in December that year. It turned out to be a game changer not just for the party but also for Lokesh’s political career for the following reasons.
First things first, Nara Lokesh emerged as a Mass Leader during this Padayatra which covered the length and breadth of Andhra Pradesh spanning over 3000 Kilometres and 100 constituencies because he stitched an emotional bond with the public, especially women voters, youngsters and small kids. He was welcomed with open arms and affection by the masses in all villages. He truly demonstrated the image of a ‘People’s leader’ during this period with his oratory skills.
Though he was born with a golden spoon, Lokesh knew he needs to come out rugged if he wants to succeed as a people’s leader and have a long career as a successful politician. As there is a saying ‘Gold is refined in Fire’, Lokesh exactly demonstrated the same quality when he didn’t step back from his ambitious pursuit to complete the marathon even at times of adversity when he faced numerous tough situations and hurdles from the beginning till the end. Numerous cases were foisted against him by the ruling party, his father was arrested, he suffered a personal loss when Taraka Ratna passed away. Many such incidents tested Lokesh’s patience only to bring the best out of him and proved his calibre.
Yuvagalam helped Lokesh understand the ground realities and also made him take note of the hardships faced by the public. He used to pay attention to the problems of people from different sectors and note them for resolution. After coming to power, he took HRD and IT Ministry because he knew that major issues were due to unemployment and in the education sector. He started resolving one after another as promised during his padayatra.
Besides getting political mileage, it was Yuvagalam Padayatra which made Lokesh realise the importance of staying connected with the people. Even after completing his Padayatra, he continued to interact with the public as much as possible. Despite his busy commitments, he continues to engage with the cadre on social media platforms regularly. Even after coming to power and with more responsibilities as a Minister, Lokesh wishes to be amongst people. That is why he started Praja Darbar through which he interacts with the public every day and listens to their grievances. He stays connected and continues to resolve their issues.
The ‘Red Book’ Slogan is another takeaway from Yuvagalam as it played a significant role in the party’s election victory. The manner in which Lokesh carried a Red Book with him during his roadshows to symbolically assure the cadre that the errant officers and opposition leaders who resorted to political vendetta would be dealt according to the law gained huge traction within the party. He is now implementing the ‘Red Book’ rule in a proper way as promised by him during the Padayatra.
Last but not the least, Lokesh’s Padayatra instilled moral support and gave the courage to TDP cadre which faced harassment and ill treatment from the then ruling party. It is no exaggeration that Yuvagalam held the cadre together during testing time and was one of the main reasons behind achievement of the historical ONE Crore membership drive. Moreover, after coming to power, Lokesh didn’t lose connection with his cadre. He maintains a strong affinity with the hardcore and loyal supporters whose made many sacrifices and stood by the party during tough times.
Tags Nara Lokesh