2014 redux: PM Narendra Modi roadshow takes Varanasi by storm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a massive power-packed roadshow in his Lok Sabha constituency of Varanasi, a day before filing nominations, reaffirming his connection with Varanasi, which is widely known as the nerve centre of Indian civilisation.

The roadshow, which stretched over seven kilometres, began from the iconic Lanka Gate of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and traversed through Assi, Bhadaini, Madanpura, Sonarpura and Godaulia before culminating at Dashashwamedh Ghat. A huge boat, dotted with the slogan 'Main Bhi Chowkidar Hoon' ( I am also a chowkidar) could be seen at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

The PM kickstarted the roadshow after paying floral tributes at the memorial of Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, the founder of BHU. At the end of the roadshow, PM Modi performed Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. BJP president Amit Shah, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, UP BJP president Mahendra Nath Pandey were among those who were present on the occasion.

Dressed in a saffron kurta, PM Modi was seen sitting atop a customised black Range Rover and constantly waving the cheering supporters. People were hanging from balconies and rooftops to have a glimpse of their favourite leader.

As PM Modi's cavalcade passed through the lanes of Varanasi, people from the roofs of houses were seen greeting him by showering flowers.

All along the roadshow, the frenzied crowd were chanting 'Modi Modi', 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' and 'Main Bhi Chowkidar'. Even hymns like 'Har Har Mahadev' could be heard.

BJP's pitch to make national security a top poll plank also appeared to have gone well with the public. "Before 2014 we had a Prime Minister who only 'condemned' (terror activities). Now, we have a Prime Minister who bombs Pakistan," said a supporter.

Another supporter from the crowd said, "Look at the sea of humanity. PM has his fingers on the pulse of the people."

"PM Modi has transformed Varanasi. Only those who live here can tell how he brought in development to the constituency," said a first-time voter.

Observers say the roadshow will have a "massive impact" in around 80 seats of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

Six Lakh Attended, Claims Party

The roadshow witnessed an unprecedented turnout with an estimated six lakh people in attendance, claimed BJP sources. They said it was much larger than the one PM Modi conducted in the constituency in 2014. Several top BJP leaders accompanied the PM during the roadshow.