In a show of civic responsibility, Bollywood’s glitterati, including Akshay Kumar, Farhan Akhtar, Rajkummar Rao, Jahnvi Kapoor, Shahid Kapoor, and others, took to the polls early Monday morning to cast their votes in the Lok Sabha elections. Polling commenced at 7 am across 13 Lok Sabha constituencies in Maharashtra, including six in the bustling city of Mumbai.
The scene at various polling stations was a blend of glamour and civic duty as renowned actors and filmmakers mingled with the general public. Akshay Kumar, a prominent figure in the film industry, expressed his earnest intentions after casting his vote at a polling station in Juhu. “I want my India to be developed and strong, and I kept these things in my mind when I went to cast my vote. All Indians should think about what is right for them and vote,” he declared. This marked a significant moment for Kumar, as it was his first time voting since obtaining Indian citizenship.
Farhan Akhtar, seen patiently standing in the queue at a Bandra West polling station, emphasized the importance of good governance. “My vote is for good governance, the government that looks after all the people, and gives us a better city,” the actor-filmmaker shared with PTI. He fervently encouraged young voters to participate, addressing complaints about the heat with optimism. “I just heard from somebody that young people are complaining that it’s too hot, but it’s not hot at all, so please do step out, do vote,” Akhtar urged.
Farhan Akhtar was accompanied by family members, including his sister and renowned film director Zoya Akhtar and their mother Honey Irani. The trio proudly displayed their inked fingers. Rajkummar Rao, another notable name from the industry, also shared a snapshot of his inked finger, emphasizing his participation in the electoral process.
The morning saw a parade of other Bollywood celebrities arriving at polling stations to fulfill their civic duties. Sanya Malhotra, known for her roles in various Bollywood films, and celebrated filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker were also present. Gowariker took to social media platform X to inspire his followers with a message: “Vote because you have a choice! Vote because you have a voice!! Vote because it is duty! Vote because it is your right! #Election2024 #LokSabhaElection2024 #Vote #Votingday.”
Veteran actress Shubha Khote made her way to the polls alongside her actor-daughter Bhavana Balsavar. After voting at a polling booth at Gandhigram school in Juhu, Khote expressed her hopes for the future, “I’ve come here and want everyone to vote for the right person. Whatever is needed, we should get that. I hope everyone gets inspired watching us and comes out to vote.”
The active participation of Bollywood celebrities in the electoral process highlights the industry’s commitment to democracy and its influence in encouraging the public to exercise their right to vote. Their presence at polling stations not only added a touch of glamour but also served as a powerful reminder of the significance of each vote in shaping the country’s future.
The Lok Sabha elections, pivotal in determining the future direction of India’s political landscape, saw a varied mix of voters from all walks of life. As Mumbai residents flocked to the polls, the atmosphere was charged with a sense of purpose and responsibility. Despite the heat, long queues, and the occasional inconvenience, the determination to participate in the democratic process was evident.
Polling day in Mumbai was marked by not just celebrity sightings but also a notable increase in young voters, undoubtedly inspired by their idols’ active participation. The eagerness to contribute to the nation’s governance was palpable as voters discussed their hopes for a government that would bring about positive changes, focusing on development, strong governance, and inclusivity.
The 2024 Lok Sabha elections are crucial, with national and regional issues at the forefront of voters’ minds. Environmental concerns, economic policies, infrastructure development, and social initiatives were among the topics discussed as voters waited their turn. The role of celebrities in drawing attention to these issues cannot be understated; their advocacy for voting has significantly impacted voter turnout, especially among the youth.
In conclusion, the participation of Bollywood stars in the voting process in Mumbai during the Lok Sabha elections has not only underscored the importance of civic duty but also demonstrated the influential role they play in mobilizing public opinion. As the polling progresses across various constituencies, the hopes for a strong, developed India resonate among all voters, driven by the collective power of their choices.
