The BJP that has been failing to get a strong foot-hold in the southern states, except Karnataka, now seems to be focusing on popular personalities from the film world to boost its presence in the next 2029 polls. In this regard, the party is said to be considering nominating renowned Tollywood actor and former Union Minister Chirnajeevi for the Rajya Sabha.
The gracious presence of Chiranjeevi along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the special Pongal celebration hosted by Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy in New Delhi has given scope for such a speculation. While the event ostensibly centered around celebrating the harvest festival and showcasing Telugu culture, its political undertones warrant closer examination.
While no elections are on the immediate horizon, this event
reinforces the BJP’s ongoing strategy to fortify its presence in the southern states. The BJP, which has traditionally faced challenges in consolidating its base in Telugu states, may see Chiranjeevi’s cultural and political capital as a bridge to a wider acceptance.
Already, BJP is in alliance with Chinrajeevi’s younger brother Pawan Kalyan, who has publicly stated following `road map’ given by the BJP. Recently in Rajya Sabha by-elections from Andhra Pradesh, though initially Pawan Kalyan attempted to send his brother Naga Babu to the Upper House, it was stalled at the last minute.
Now, it is speculated that Pawan Kalyan restrained from endorsing Naga Babu to the Rajya Sabha only after the BJP top leadership expressed the view of nominating Chiranjeevi to the Upper House. Having dabbled in politics as the founder of the erstwhile Praja Rajyam Party (PRP) and later as a Union Minister under the Congress-led UPA government, Chiranjeevi’s political journey has been as dynamic as his cinematic career.
Despite maintaining a low profile politically in recent years, his sporadic endorsements and public appearances still carry weight. His presence at this Sankranti event could be seen as a tacit signal of camaraderie with BJP leadership. Although no official political statements emerged, Chiranjeevi’s participation offers subtle cues that BJP may seek to leverage.
His vast influence over fans and voters could be instrumental in carving a path for BJP in the Telugu heartlands, particularly in Telangana, where the party has ambitious growth plans.
The timing of this event, early in 2025, also invites speculation about groundwork being laid for the 2029 general elections. According to sources, BJP is making strategic moves for a realignment of political forces in Andhra Pradesh by 2029 polls, making Pawan Kalyan as its Chief Ministerial face. In this design, it felt Chinrajeevi’s presence would boost its mass appeal.