Spiritual Leader Shantigiri Maharaj Considers Political Aspirations

Nashik-based spiritual leader Shantigiri Maharaj hints at entering electoral politics, claiming support from four lakh voters. His candidacy is speculated for the Nashik Lok Sabha seat, where Shiv Sena's Hemant Godse is another contender. Maharaj's backing stems from his temple and trust, with a following in numerous families. He enjoys influence in 16 assembly seats around Nashik, adding to his potential support.

Shantigiri Maharaj, a Nashik-based spiritual leader, indicated on Tuesday that he was likely to enter electoral politics by claiming that he has a backing of at least four lakh voters.

Maharaj's name has been doing rounds as a likely candidate for the Nashik Lok Sabha constituency in north Maharashtra for some time.

In a statement, he said his Jai Babaji temple and trust have followers in around 1.80 lakh families, which translates into nearly four lakh voters.

He has a clean image and enjoys influence in 16 assembly seats in and around Nashik district, the statement claimed.

There was speculation that Shantigiri Maharaj was keen on contesting on the NDA ticket, but sitting Shiv Sena MP Hemant Godse is also a strong contender.