The Lok Sabha elections in India have concluded, garnering nationwide attention with the results. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is poised to assume office for the third time on June 8th. Amidst the political fervor, a notable figure from 1990s Telugu cinema has made a significant impact by winning the Hooghly MP seat in West Bengal.
Rachana Banerjee, a prominent actress renowned for her work in Bengali and Odia films, has successfully transitioned to politics, securing the Hooghly MP seat for the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) by defeating the BJP’s incumbent MP, Locket Chatterjee. Banerjee’s illustrious film career spans over three decades, featuring notable roles in Tollywood productions such as ‘Raayudu’ alongside Mohan Babu, ‘Baavagaru Bagunnara’ with Chiranjeevi, and ‘Sultan’ with Balakrishna. Her last appearance was in the 2002 film ‘Lahiri Lahiri Lahirilo’ with Nandamuri Harikrishna. She is also acclaimed for her performances in films like ‘Kanyadanam,’ ‘Pilla Nachindi,’ and ‘Abhishekam.’
Historically, several senior and former star actresses, including Jaya Bachchan and Jayaprada, have served in Parliament. Actresses who have graced Telugu cinema, such as Navneet Kaur, have also been elected as MPs. This year, in addition to Rachana Banerjee, Kangana Ranaut, known for her role in ‘Ek Niranjan’ opposite Prabhas, has been elected to Parliament from Haryana, further highlighting the growing influence of film personalities in Indian politics.
