Priyanka Gandhi's First Nagpur Visit Draws Massive Crowds for Congress
Nagpur, India: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadre made her debut campaign visit to Nagpur on Sunday, drawing massive crowds supporting party candidates as the Assembly elections approach. Her roadshow through West Nagpur witnessed thousands of enthusiastic supporters lining the streets from Awasthi Nagar Square to Dinshaw Factory Square, waving back at Priyanka as she greeted them from her open-top vehicle. This first-ever appearance by Priyanka in Nagpur energized Congress supporters and created a buzz across the city.
The rally, held on a Sunday, attracted a particularly large turnout, with families and women eagerly waiting to see her. Priyanka’s second roadshow, held from Gandhi Gate to Badkas Square, ventured into BJP’s stronghold in Mahal, part of the Central Nagpur Assembly segment where Congress candidate Bunty Shelke faces a tough contest against BJP’s Pravin Datke. The symbolic route chosen in Mahal signaled Congress’s intent to challenge BJP’s influence in the area.
In West Nagpur, the roadshow backing Congress City President Vikas Thakre drew especially large crowds, with people filling a two-kilometer stretch to show their support. Women, in particular, stood along the road for extended periods, eager to catch a glimpse of Priyanka and join the Congress rally. Although Priyanka’s arrival was delayed, the waiting crowd’s enthusiasm did not wane, as her appearance marked a significant moment in the party’s Nagpur campaign.
Accompanying Priyanka were Congress candidates Vikas Thakre, Praful Gudadhe, and Girish Pandav, alongside senior party figures like AICC General Secretary Ramesh Chennithala and Vidarbha Region observer Bhupesh Baghel. Gudadhe and Pandav are contesting from South West Nagpur and South Nagpur, respectively. During the Central Nagpur rally, Bunty Shelke presented Priyanka with a traditional mace, which she waved to the cheering crowd, adding a symbolic note to the campaign.
The turnout underscored the Congress party's renewed efforts in Nagpur and its determination to win critical seats in the region. With Priyanka’s support energizing the campaign, Congress leaders are hoping to make significant gains against the BJP in these key constituencies.
