Sonbhadra: The remains of the forts of the rulers of the Chandela dynasty are high on the banks of the Son river in Obra, an assembly seat reserved for the Scheduled Tribes.
For those wishing to explore the parts of the fort situated on top of the mountain, visiting the temple of Ajay Kali is a must.
During the election season, all the candidates have visited the temple to seek the blessings of the deity and become ‘Ajeya’ (invincible).
While the candidates – Sunil Gond (SP), Subhash Kharwar (BSP), Sanjeev Gond (BJP) and Ramraj Gond (Congress) – are sweating, locals, including Dalits, have made up their minds.
Interestingly, what is ‘invincible’ for many voters is not even contesting elections. Seema says with a pleasant smile, “I will vote for whomever I like.” While his family participates in a ‘Katha’ at the temple. Through a series of prompts such as “the one who stood by us during the pandemic”, “the one who built the toilet for us”, and “the one who is building the house for us”, she finally says, “The Prime Minister Narendra Modi “.
A member of the Harijan community, Seema admitted that she has been voting for ‘behenji’ (Mayawati) in the past.
Ramdai, a middle-aged widow from the same community, also endorses the ‘lotus’ (BJP’s election symbol). He has also got a house and is getting pension. When asked about his choice, he replied, “Modi badhi hai (Modi is the best).” While the change in committed BSP voters is shocking, the fact that they seem to be maturing is a big change. When asked to comment on the reason for the change, Ramjas says, “Because I don’t want to waste my vote. My party has fielded someone who can lose.” Another voter Rajni says, “Behenji is my role model but she seems to be making half efforts.” According to Phullu, another voter in the constituency, it is purely a matter of choice as to whom to vote for. The temple’s priest Atul Tiwari says that the area is known for the love story of Lorik Veer, who won his beloved after a fierce battle with the rulers and remained ‘invincible’ for the rest of his life.
“Modi has been ‘invincible’ in this region in the last few elections. Whether the tradition continues or not, we will know on March 10,” he said.
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