Telugu film star and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has become a big draw in the ongoing Maharashtra election campaign with candidates demanding his presence, Bharatiya Janata Party leaders said ( BJP).

On Sunday, Kalyan was in the Pune camp area where his public rally attracted a massive crowd. Similarly, earlier this week, Kalyan rallies in the border districts of Latur, Solapur and Nanded attracted massive support. Initially planned as routine campaign stops, these rallies have grown into major events, sparking calls for more appearances in the final phase of the campaign.

Addressing his rally in Pune, he said, “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is growing. Terrorist incidents have decreased.

“I have a special connection with Pune because I have a house here. My children studied here and that is the reason why I love the city of Pune,” he said.

Kalyan, also known as ‘Power Star’, has made a successful transition from cinema to politics. After founding the Jana Sena Party (JSP) in 2014, he achieved substantial political success in 2024 by forging an alliance between the JSP, TDP and BJP. This coalition won a landslide victory, with Janasena winning all 21 MP seats and the two MP seats she contested. Kalyan himself was elected from Pitapuram constituency with a margin of over 70,000 votes, subsequently becoming Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh.

In his speeches, Kalyan highlighted the protection of Sanatan Dharma while paying tribute to Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar and others. His ability to deliver parts of his speech in Marathi further endeared him to the audience. Political observers have noted the significant impact of his rallies, with many speculating that his presence could influence election results in those constituencies.

“Pawan Kalyan’s rallies have given a boost to our campaign in Maharashtra,” said a BJP member. “The demand for his appearance is skyrocketing, requests are pouring in from various constituencies. »

The Kalyan rallies not only strengthened the BJP’s campaign but also highlighted its ability to connect with the masses. His growing political influence, coupled with his star power, made him a central figure in the Mahayuti alliance’s efforts to secure victory in the Maharashtra parliamentary elections.