Bollywood star Kangana Ranaut created history today by winning the Mandi seat in Himachal Pradesh as a BJP candidate. Ranaut defeated her nearest rival from the Congress party by an impressive margin of 72,088 votes.
The Mandi result was one of the most keenly watched contests in these state elections. Ranaut, known for her fiery personality and direct speaking style, campaigned vigorously across the constituency, drawing huge crowds.
"This is a victory for the people of Mandi who want change and development," Ranaut told reporters after her win. "I will be an MLA who works tirelessly for my constituents and speaks up fearlessly for their issues in the state assembly."
The 37-year-old actor is one of the few Bollywood celebrities to jump into electoral politics. Her entry was criticized by some as a publicity stunt, but she focused her campaign on local issues like employment, agriculture, and tourism in Mandi.
Ranaut's ability to win over voters in her debut election shows her cultural popularity translates into political appeal as well. She is expected to be a high-profile voice for the BJP in the Himachal assembly.
With results still coming in from other seats, it remains to be seen if the BJP will be able to form government again in the hill state or if Congress will unseat them. But one thing is clear - Kangana Ranaut is now Himachal's biggest political star.