Nagpur: Deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis received a hero's welcome after his touchdown in Nagpur on Saturday evening, following BJP-led Mahayuti's historic triumph in Maharashtra assembly elections. Hundreds of enthusiastic BJP leaders, workers, and supporters gathered outside Fadnavis's residence in Dharampeth here, waving flags and chanting slogans to celebrate his role in the coalition's resounding success.
The celebrations marked a homecoming for the leader, who was the face of BJP in Maharashtra for nearly a decade. Party workers carried banners lauding Fadnavis' leadership and BJP's record-breaking performance, which saw the party secure 133 seats — its best-ever tally in Maharashtra.
Visibly moved by the overwhelming show of support, Fadnavis greeted the crowd with folded hands and waved the BJP flag in response to their cheers. The Nagpur Southwest MLA, a pivotal figure in the BJP campaign, attributed the coalition's victory to public blessings, unwavering trust, and divine grace. "This victory is extraordinary. As I've said before, when people and God shower their blessings, it's always abundant — chappar phaad ke," Fadnavis remarked.
He took the opportunity to criticise Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) for what he called a "campaign of personal attacks" against him and his family, and BJP leaders. He noted such tactics were rejected outright by voters. "The public has sent a clear message to the opposition. They don't appreciate personal attacks and negative politics. The people taught them a lesson," he said.
Regarding the chief minister's position, Fadnavis maintained the decision would be taken collectively by alliance partners in consultation with BJP's parliamentary committee. "All parties in our coalition are natural allies, and we worked together to achieve this historic victory. We will sit together to decide on the chief minister. There are no disputes," he clarified.
Although speculation on Fadnavis's return as CM for a third term is rife, he shifted focus to the unity within Mahayuti and credited BJP state president Chandrashekar Bawankule for his stellar leadership. "He worked relentlessly, travelling across Maharashtra, countering criticism, and mobilising support. His leadership was a big factor in our success," he said, referring to the state president as the "captain" of the BJP campaign.
Fadnavis noted all organisations working for the nation's development assisted in countering the "anarchist narrative" propagated by the opposition. "RSS is like a guiding force — the mother of our movement," he said, without explicitly acknowledging the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
He also highlighted the opposition's constant targeting of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying it backfired. "The MVA focused on spreading hatred and criticism against Modi. People trust Modi and witness his work. This reaction from voters is a testament to that trust," he added.
Before arriving home, Fadnavis made a stop at Union Minister Nitin Gadkari's residence, where he sought the senior leader's blessings. The deputy CM expressed gratitude to the people of Vidarbha and Nagpur for their role in Mahayuti's success. "Vidarbha and Nagpur have always been the foundation of our strength, and this time, they once again blessed us with their trust," he said. He also acknowledged the tireless efforts of BJP workers and leaders, calling them the backbone of the party's electoral success.
The rousing welcome at Fadnavis' home symbolised not just a celebration of electoral success but also the faith that BJP activists and supporters place in his leadership. "This is just the beginning of a new chapter for Maharashtra. We will continue to work tirelessly for the state's development," Fadnavis said, striking a tone of optimism and resolve for the future.