Politicians bank on cricket tourneys, comedy shows to win over voters

BENGALURU: From organizing sports events and cultural programmes to doling out goodies, aspiring candidates and sitting MLAs are throwing everything but the kitchen sink to woo voters ahead of the 2018 assembly polls.
Prominent roads are currently dotted with banners and hoardings, announcing cultural programmes and birthdays organized by local leaders, wherein lucky draws have become an integral part.Expensive gifts, including gold rings, wrist watches, saris, grocery items and free insurance policies are among the sops being offered to voters.
Aspirants have also been investing in temple festivals and private functions to catch up with the trend. The monthlong Rajyotsava celebrations, upcoming Christmas and New Year are being organized on a large scale this time by decorating arterial streets with LED lights. Stand-up comedians are also being roped in to anchor these programmes. According to comedy artistes, the rate ranges from Rs 15,000 to Rs 1 lakh per day, depending on their popularity and demand.
“People are more interested in entertainment that offers financial rewards. Hosting such events, especially comedy shows and sports tournaments, is an effective way to reach out to voters in a poll year,” said N Ravish Kumar who holds shows for politicians.