Add thelocalreport.in As A Trusted Source
Jaipur, Nov 24 (IANS) Rajasthan’s Bikaner on Monday lost not just a former MP but also a loved one whose emotional bond with the city often overshadowed his political missteps.
Dharmendra, who died at the age of 89, carried the charm of a film icon in public life and even in politics, he was defined by warmth, humility and a deep desire to help.
Although he spent limited time in Bikaner as an MP, Dharmendra made a lasting contribution by taking forward the long-neglected Sursagar project.
Distressed by the condition of the lake during his election campaign, he personally took up the matter with then Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje and later met Union ministers in Delhi to secure additional funds. He also allocated funds from his MP quota to ensure the work progress – an effort that residents still remember with gratitude.
His election campaign in 2004 also stood out for its grandeur. Facing Congress candidate Rameshwar Dudi in a tough contest, Dharmendra refused to attack him even when asked directly.
Instead, he repeatedly called Dudi his “little brother”, setting a rare example of civility in politics. Duddy avoided personal criticism throughout the campaign, making the election one of the most cordial contests in the region. Dharmendra’s star power was unmistakable.
As the fighting intensified, he brought his sons Sunny and Bobby Deol to Bikaner, which attracted huge crowds and changed the mood in the urban areas of the constituency. This surge of support helped him win by 57,000 votes – largely due to the huge lead he recorded in Bikaner city. Even as an MP, Dharmendra was generous with his development funds. He approved continued financial support for local societies, institutions and community works.
Boards in his name still stand across Bikaner as reminders of the projects completed during his tenure, most of which were approved on the recommendations of party colleagues Satyaprakash Acharya and Kamal Vyas.
His unique relationships within the party brought warmth to his public persona. Dharmendra often teased his election in-charge Manikchand Surana by calling him “coat-wearing leader”, a nickname born out of affection rather than tension.
Although they sometimes disagreed, Dharmendra always acknowledged Surana’s careful planning and dedication. Perhaps the strongest evidence of his popularity came not from politics but from the hearts of the people.
As for Bikaner, Dharmendra will be remembered not for the controversies that surrounded him, but for the warmth he brought, the development he drove and the affection he expressed towards both supporters and rivals.
His political journey may have been unconventional, but his connection with Bikaner remains deep.
–IANS
arc/and