For many years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was not just a leader but a hero for Shyam Rangeela, mirroring the admiration held by millions of Indians. Shyam was so inspired that he began to mimic Modi, even mastering the PM’s iconic “Bhaiyon, Behno” greetings.
Over time, however, things changed. Shyam experienced a shift in perspective, particularly after facing what he called restrictions on his work from a group of Modi supporters. This marked the beginning of his transformation from a devoted fan into a critic.
Recently, the comedian made headlines with his announcement to contest against Modi from Varanasi as an Independent candidate.
“Halfway into the show in which I was mimicking the PM, I was asked to walk out, and mend my ways. That day, I felt that my freedom was clipped. Later, I realised that such intimidation was common. Politicians are not so generous in taking humour and criticism,” a ToI report (by Shailvee Sharda) quoted Rangeela as saying.
Journeying all the way from Rajasthan’s Sriganganagar to file his nomination, Shyam’s efforts were thwarted by a technical error. The reason for the cancellation of his papers was due to the omission of “not taking oath” during submission, leading to what he calls the “shattering of a dream”. Though disappointing, Rangeela sees the rejection as a form of victory.
“The cause of freedom for which I stood up got some attention,” he adds, reflecting on his “chhoti si poll story”.
Embracing the rejection, Shyam is relishing the moment, giving interviews, and meeting journalists and influencers from around the globe.
Sharing his experience with TOI, the comedian says, “Wo kehte they ki challenge ke bina maza nahi aata hai. Why couldn’t Modi ji keep his words?” he wonders, questioning his rejection.
Does he regret his political venture? The narrative doesn’t explicitly answer, leaving room for interpretation.
“Haan, main toh kahin ka nahi raha. BJP wale kehte hain ki maine Modi ji ka mazak banyaya. Congress wale kehte hain main Rahul ki mimicry ki hai. Mujhe dono taraf se kaam nahi milta hai. Chunav mein bahut paisa bhi kharch ho gaya hai to ab naya kaam dhoondh ke hisab theek karna hoga,” Rangeela told the newspaper.
He claimed to the newspaper that he said no to offers to join opposition candidates and target Narendra Modi from a stronger political platform.
“I didn’t want to get tagged. In this way, I will prove my trollers right,” Rangeela adds.
“Jibes such as ‘mazak mazak mein serious ho gaya’ and ‘ghode pe aaya tha nomination bharne’ are very decent compared to allegations like my nomination was rejected because of a pending rape case against me,” he says.
Rangeela says he will miss the love that people showered on him when he announced to contest poll from Kashi.
