Actor Govinda Joins Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena Ahead of Lok Sabha Polls

Actor Govinda joined Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) in the presence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Thursday ahead of Lok Sabha polls. “There was ‘vanvaas’ from 2010 to 2024,” the actor said, reminiscing his time in politics from 2004-2009.

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“I am joining Shiv Sena and it is a blessing of God. I thought I would not enter politics again,” Govinda said.

“It (‘vanvaas’) has ended. I have entered Ram Rajya under Shinde ji,” Govinda said.

The actor noted that his parents had a good relationship with Shiv Sena founder later Balasaheb Thackeray.

‘Clean Aura of Shiv Sena Inspired Me’: Govinda

“The clean aura (of Shiv Sena) inspired me. We have seen the same level of progress here (in Maharashtra) in the last 2 years, as we have seen in the country in the last 10 years. We will focus on the beautification of the state and the growth of art and culture…” Govinda said after joining the Shinde faction of Shiv Sena.

‘Govinda Will Be The Link Between Govt & Film Industry’: CM Eknath Shinde

Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde said Govinda told him he wants to “do something for the film industry”. “He will be the link between the government and the film industry,” Shinde said.

‘A Man of Clean Heart’

On veteran Bollywood actor Govinda joining the Shiv Sena, Rajya Sabha MP Milind Deora called him “a man of clean heart”.

“I have known Govinda for almost 25 years. In 2004, we both fought elections together. My late father had brought him to Congress… He is a man with a clean heart, and he wants to represent the creative industry and the cultural capital of the country, Mumbai,” he said.

A Lok Sabha Candidature From Mumbai North West on Cards for Govinda

According to a Hindustan Times report, Govina might be fielded from Mumbai North West Lok Sabha constituency.

Govinda’s Political Career

Govinda had joined the Congress party in 2004 and was elected to the Lok Sabha from Mumbai North defeating BJP’s Ram Naik. He continued his film career while serving as a Lok Sabha MP. However, in January 2008, he decided to quit politics and focus on his acting career.