The upcoming Maharashtra election sees a clash of generations in Karad South, a town known for its sugar production and located at the meeting point of the Koyna and Krishna rivers.
Two candidates, both fondly referred to as "Baba" by locals, are vying for the seat. Prithviraj Chavan, a veteran Congressman and former Maharashtra Chief Minister, is hoping for a victory hat-trick. He faces stiff competition from the BJP's Dr. Atul Bhosale, a young politician actively involved in social work across Western Maharashtra's sugar belt.
Chavan, whose family boasts a long political legacy in Karad, expressed confidence in his connection with the people. "I have worked in Karad as an MP and MLA…I am sure people will support me,” he stated during his campaigns.
Dr. Bhosale, though previously unsuccessful in securing the seat, remains optimistic. He highlights the backing of national leadership, stating, “We have the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”
The Karad South contest is particularly significant due to its history. After delimitation, the Karad seat was absorbed into the larger Satara constituency, currently held by BJP’s Udayan Raje Bhosale, a descendent of the Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Both candidates come from politically active families. Chavan's father and mother served as Karad MPs, while Dr. Bhosale's family is deeply rooted in the cooperative sector, particularly within the sugar industry.