Real challenge for reel heroes

BHUBANESWAR: Ollywood actor-turned-politician Bijay Mohanty proved his acting skills as a politician in 2009 flick, 'Mukhyamantri'. Now, the cine star faces the real-life challenge as a Congress nominated from the prestigious Bhubaneswar seat.
Mohanty is not alone. Several other actors, who joined different political parties in the run-up to the twin elections have tough tasks ahead to learn the nuances of politics, background and equations of different political parties.
The rookie politicians said they have already started their homework.
Mohanty said he is regularly interacting with his party seniors and learning the steps of politics. "I can deliver speeches and pull crowds, as people know me very well. But I am not a political expert. I am receiving tips on how to transform my image as a politician. I am learning the larger issues the party (Congress) has been harping on to rattle the BJD and BJP. I am also closely following the political developments in the state and country ever since I joined politics," Mohanty said. At a time when Congress in the state is plagued by "infighting" and "exodus", Mohanty said, adding that he is hopeful his party leaders would guide him in the right way.
Actor Mihir Das, who joined ruling BJD, said knowledge about Odisha's political scenario and different issues about the state are imperative before making a plunge into politics. "I have started gaining general knowledge about the constituencies (both assembly and parliamentary) and previous political situations in the state. We have to learn the state's political past to differentiate it with today," Das said.
BJP's Pintu Nanda, who was of late busy in the shooting for an upcoming movie where he plays the role of a villain, said he is regularly going through newspapers and watching news to understand the pre-poll developments in the state.
"As of now, the party has not specified my exact role. But I am preparing myself for any assignment. Since I belong to a national party, I have to keep a track on the political developments in the party across the country," Nanda said. "I will soon approach political analysts and senior party leaders to learn politics," Nanda said.