Politics of age: Old out, young in

YOUNG AND RESTLESS: Kanse's victory could pave the way for fresh blood in Maharashtra politics.

Featured Blog

Rajdeep Sardesai

Maharaj or Dada, Ganguly's legacy lives on

Featured Slideshows

Thane (Maharashtra): It is all in the game for 24-year-old Ghanshyam Kanse, who is now one of the youngest corporators in Maharashtra.

His campaign as a Shiv Sena corporator started from when frustrated local residents convinced him to fight the polls and today, sitting in his election office, he has no regrets.

"I have won this election because of the people and I can only thank them for their hard work," said Kanse.

For Kanse, the contest might have started from the cricket field but he has taken the battle to a higher ground.

His victory could well pave the way for fresh blood, fresh agendas and fresh politics in Maharashtra.

In a corporation full of political veterans, Kanse believes that his young age is a blessing rather than a hindrance.

"People have faith as I have new ideas and the old failed in their job," said Kanse. Local residents have bought his idea and are willing to back him fully.

“He's young, so we feel he'll make changes for the better,” said a resident, Archana.

Kanse has good precedents to follow – 28-year-old Najib Mulla, who started out at the same age. Mulla says politics is more than just public service.

"Politics is about power and control," he said. Young corporators have captured the mandate but they need to show maturity beyond their years if they are to make a mark and ensure a long political career.