In a grand display of political strength and fervor, the newly appointed Uttar Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president, Pankaj Chaudhary, made his first visit to his native Gorakhpur after assuming the crucial state leadership role. The event transformed into a massive rally of party workers and supporters, showcasing the organization's deep roots in the region.
A Hero's Welcome in the Political Heartland
The seven-time Lok Sabha Member of Parliament from the Maharajganj constituency was greeted with immense enthusiasm upon his arrival at the airport. Party workers created a festive atmosphere, dancing energetically to traditional drum beats and waving ceremonial maces, known as 'gadas,' to welcome his convoy.
Standing proudly in an open vehicle, Chaudhary acknowledged the cheering crowds as his procession moved through the city. His first stop was the revered Mohaddipur Gurdwara, where he paid his respects alongside Gorakhpur MP and popular actor, Ravi Kishan. This visit highlighted the party's outreach to diverse communities.
Journey Through Gorakhpur's Landmarks
The cavalcade then proceeded to Gorakhpur University, where enthusiastic workers adorned him with numerous garlands. From the stage, Chaudhary symbolically waved a 'gada,' a gesture resonating with strength and tradition. He later paid floral tributes at the statue of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, the ideological fountainhead of the BJP's parent organization, the Jana Sangh.
The new state president also visited the party's regional office, where his arrival was celebrated with fireworks. Addressing the gathered workers, Chaudhary took a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminding everyone that Gorakhpur is the very soil where his political career took root.
He began his journey as a councillor here in 1989 and later served as the deputy mayor. He expressed profound gratitude to the voters of Maharajganj for electing him to the national parliament seven consecutive times, humbly attributing his entire political success to the relentless efforts of party workers and the unwavering support of the public.
Vision for the Party and Political Contrasts
In his address, Chaudhary outlined his core belief that the BJP's real power lies in empowering its workers at the grassroots level. He vowed to live up to the significant responsibility entrusted to him by the party leadership. Drawing a clear political distinction, he described the BJP as a 'sarva samaj' party—a party for all sections of society.
In contrast, he alleged that rivals like the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Congress function essentially as family-run enterprises. He praised BJP cadres for their year-round activism, emphasizing that their work continues beyond the election cycle.
Union Minister Kamlesh Paswan, present at the events, underscored the BJP's internal democratic ethos, stating it is the only party where a common worker can rise through the ranks to become a state president. MP Ravi Kishan echoed the celebratory mood, interpreting the overwhelming enthusiasm as a reflection of the workers' deep faith in the party's leadership and direction.
Chaudhary concluded his significant visit with a spiritual touch, offering prayers at the famous Gorakhnath Temple, a site of immense cultural and religious importance in the region. The day marked a powerful homecoming, setting the tone for his tenure at the helm of the BJP's Uttar Pradesh unit.
