Celebrity power met democratic duty as Ranbir Kapoor, Padmini Kolhapure, and Shabana Azmi voted in the high-stakes BMC elections, chanting ‘Vote is our power.’ Their involvement spotlights the pulse of Mumbai’s electorate in this mega civic showdown.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections engage 94.77 lakh voters across diverse neighborhoods, from glittering Marine Drive to bustling Dharavi. With 10,718 candidates in fray, the polls decide control over vast resources shaping daily life.
Ranbir Kapoor, Bollywood’s blue-eyed boy, turned up at his south Mumbai station, inking his finger and urging fans: ‘Don’t sit this out.’ He spotlighted youth apathy and the need for smart city upgrades. Padmini Kolhapure, the 80s sensation, echoed similar sentiments post-voting.
Shabana Azmi, a Padma Shri awardee, arrived with purpose, advocating for equitable resource distribution. ‘BMC must prioritize the underprivileged,’ she asserted, linking votes to social justice. Their star power amplified voter awareness campaigns.
Parties pulled no punches: Sena factions split, BJP consolidates, opposition unites on anti-incumbency. Key battlegrounds include ward-level rivalries over development funds. Weather held up, aiding steady influx at 10,925 booths manned by thousands of staff.
Beyond glamour, the elections address pressing concerns – erratic water, crumbling infrastructure, rising taxes. Analysts foresee fragmented mandates, paving way for coalitions. With ink drying on fingers, Mumbai awaits results that could redefine urban living standards.