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It is a homecoming for Rabri Devi in Raghopur

K. Balchand

A road show with a difference; traditional welcome all the way

WITH HER OWN PEOPLE: Former Bihar Chief Minister, Rabri Devi, during a road show at Raghopur

RAGHOPUR: Her campaign breathed freshness in Bihar electioneering, characterised by chopper-hop. Former Chief Minister Rabri Devi's roadshow in her constituency, Raghopur, was in accordance with tradition.

At no time did it appear that she was canvassing for votes, as a candidate of the Rashtriya Janata Dal, for a third straight win from the constituency.

Her two-day trip was more like homecoming, for the people elected her husband, the RJD leader and Railway Minister, Lalu Prasad, earlier.

It has been a safe seat for the couple who ruled the State for over 15 years.

Discarding her campaign vehicle, Ms. Rabri Devi made enquiries on each doorstep. In the all-women show, `aarti', `kumkum' and garlands were offered umpteen times, followed by touching of her feet.

As she went from house to house, Rabri Devi was overwhelmed with offers of bangles, saris and small amounts of money. Some presented gold. Vegetables and plantains were given to the lady on a short visit to the "family."

Ms. Rabri Devi went into the houses and quenched her thirst, and joined people performing pujas. She promised to have a temple constructed at one spot.

Some raised their problems and she promised to redress the grievances in due time.

Most of the people, however, felt that she need not have taken the trouble of seeking support for herself. "We won't vote for anyone else," they said.

Ms. Rabri Devi was ecstatic: "You see their affection for me. It does not matter to them that developmental schemes had not been implemented to their satisfaction. They are my people."

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