Invoking Vadodara’s regal heritage and his own humble past of selling tea, BJP’s prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi filed his nomination papers from the Vadodara Lok Sabha constituency on Wednesday.
Shubhanginidevi Raje Gaekwad, royal family member, and Kiran Mahida, a tea vendor from the old city of Vadodara, signed as Mr. Modi’s supporters on the nomination papers.
Mr. Modi, contesting from Vadodara for the first time, sought to underscore his ties with the region known for the Gaekwad dynasty.
“The Gaekwad state had a great tradition of focussing on the education of girls. They [the royal family] built libraries. I am also a beneficiary of their legacy as I went to a school built by them. In the area of good governance and social welfare, the name of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad [III] is etched in gold,” Mr. Modi said.
Calling Vadodara his karmabhoomi, Mr. Modi thanked his party for giving him the opportunity to represent the constituency.
Speaking to reporters, Ms. Gaekwad hoped for “a record-breaking victory” for Mr. Modi.
Earlier, Mr. Modi staged a roadshow in the old city and was given a rousing welcome by supporters. Enthusiastic crowds greeted him with slogans, loud beating of drums, songs and even shlokas, as his cavalcade drove through packed streets in an elaborate show of support.
