Actor Govinda returns to politics after 14-year "Vanvaas", joins Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena

Digital Desk: Bollywood actor Govinda has made headlines with his political comeback just ahead of the highly anticipated 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In a significant move, Govinda has joined the Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena in Mumbai. The actor officially became a part of Shiv Sena at Balasaheb Bhavan after a crucial meeting with the Chief Minister earlier in the day.

Sources close to the development have revealed that Govinda is likely to contest from the North-West Mumbai seat on a Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) ticket, setting up a potential challenge against Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Amol Kirtikar.

Expressing his sentiments on the occasion, Govinda reflected on his unexpected return to the political arena, stating, "I am back (in politics) after a 14-year-long 'vanvas' (exile)." He also commended Chief Minister Shinde, remarking that Mumbai has become more beautiful and developed under his leadership. Additionally, Govinda expressed his willingness to contribute to the fields of art and culture if given the opportunity.

However, not everyone has welcomed Govinda's political comeback with open arms. NCP leader Jayant Patil took a jab at Govinda's popularity, suggesting that Chief Minister Shinde should have chosen a more renowned actor for the role. Despite the criticism, Govinda remains undeterred in his decision to re-enter the political arena.

This isn't Govinda's first stint in politics. In the 2004 Lok Sabha elections, he contested the Mumbai North Lok Sabha seat under the Congress banner, emerging victorious against senior BJP leader Ram Naik. However, Govinda later distanced himself from the Congress party and politics, opting not to contest in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls.

As the countdown to the Lok Sabha polls begins, the political landscape in Maharashtra is heating up with discussions on seat-sharing arrangements. Eknath Shinde is yet to finalize seat-sharing agreements with the BJP and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena's decision to contest 17 Lok Sabha seats has stirred tensions with coalition partners Congress and NCP.

With the stage set for a highly contested electoral battle, Govinda's political comeback adds an intriguing dimension to the unfolding drama of Maharashtra's political landscape. As the state gears up for the elections, all eyes will be on the veteran actor's campaign trail and the impact he may have on the electoral outcome.