Kerala's CEO Rathan U Kelkar Goes Viral with Dance Video to Encourage Voter Turnout
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Thiruvananthapuram, April 6 (NationPress) In an innovative and unexpected strategy to elevate voter participation ahead of the April 9 Assembly elections, Kerala’s Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Rathan U Kelkar, has resonated with the youth in a unique way.
A vibrant dance video featuring the senior IAS officer has taken social media by storm, introducing a lively element to the Election Commission’s voter awareness initiative in the state, where 140 new legislators will be elected this Thursday.
The one minute and thirty-three second clip, unveiled by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in Kochi, depicts Kelkar dancing along the coastline alongside a team of officials tasked with overseeing the elections.
This creative initiative marks a shift from traditional awareness efforts, aiming to engage younger voters through relatable and imaginative content.
Kelkar is joined in this spirited performance by Thiruvananthapuram District Collector Anu Kumari and Assistant Collector Sivasakthivel, along with numerous other officials and grassroots election personnel.
Among the participants are S.S Sarin (KAS), Under Secretary of the Election Department, and Booth Level Officers including Sathyabhama, Anagha Sajikumar, Manasa R.B, Devika Anil, Deepa L, Aneesh M.S, Abhijith, and Ashwin, all contributing to the seaside dance sequence set to a catchy tune.
The video’s memorable lyrics, “This is your vote and our state needs your vote… one goal can change the game and one vote can alter fate,” highlight the importance of democratic engagement.
This creative outreach seems to resonate particularly well with first-time voters and the digitally savvy audience.
The viral initiative is part of a wider array of strategies implemented by the Election Commission of India to boost voter engagement throughout Kerala.
As the polling day approaches, officials are optimistic that such innovative efforts will lead to increased voter turnout and enhanced civic participation, reinforcing the vibrancy of the state’s democratic system.