The video features Rahul Gandhi in the company of his nephew, Raihan Vadra, as they interact with artisans and laborers involved in traditional crafts, attentively hearing their concerns.
Rahul Gandhi’s public relations team continues to strive to portray him as a champion of the working class, representing India’s most renowned political lineage.
On Friday, the Leader of the Opposition shared a video on his social media platforms, depicting his interactions with artisans and laborers. He expressed, “We often lack an understanding of their lives, so I felt it was important to engage with them about their challenges before the Diwali celebrations this year,” as he described the video on YouTube.
He stated, “I celebrated this Diwali by collaborating with some painter brothers and crafting clay lamps with potter families. I closely observed their craftsmanship, sought to learn their techniques, and gained insight into their issues.” The footage features Gandhi alongside his nephew, Raihan Vadra, as they engage with local artisans involved in traditional crafts.
Gandhi remarked, “The current generation frequently overlooks these experiences. They are predominantly absorbed in WhatsApp, mobile phones, and social media. I believed it was essential for Raihan to witness the foundational work that takes place.”
In the video, a moment is captured where Gandhi inquires if Raihan found the tasks simple, to which Raihan replies, “No, it appears much easier than it truly is.”
Raihan then asks Gandhi if he celebrated Diwali during his school days. The Congress leader reminisces, “Yes, celebrating Diwali at school was enjoyable. We would even play with rockets sometimes—I was the one who orchestrated that!”
The video also features Rahul Gandhi and Raihan assisting workers at 10, Janpath.
The Congress leader questions the workers, “Where are you from?” They respond, “Bihar.”
Rahul follows up with, “How do you find Delhi?” The workers reply, “It’s nice, but home is home, sir.”
“They do not return to their homes; we celebrate festivals joyfully, while they earn a living and consequently forget their village, city, and family,” Rahul observes. The video further showcases his visit to diya makers in Uttam Nagar, New Delhi, where six young girls were crafting diyas for Diwali. Gandhi also takes the opportunity to learn about the diya-making process from them.
He states that while some individuals craft joy from clay and illuminate the celebrations of others, one must question whether they can truly bask in that light themselves, as homeowners struggle to maintain their households.
“Diwali symbolizes light, a force capable of dispelling the shadows of poverty and despair, with its flame bringing smiles to every home. It is imperative that we establish a system that acknowledges talent and honors contributions, ensuring that Diwali is a joyous occasion for all.”
“I wish for this Diwali to usher in prosperity, advancement, and affection into the lives of each one of you.”
In May, leading up to the Lok Sabha elections, the Union Home Minister directed several criticisms towards Rahul Gandhi. At one gathering, Shah remarked that the Lok Sabha elections presented a choice between Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who celebrates Diwali with army personnel, and Rahul Gandhi, who “escapes abroad for vacations whenever the weather turns unfavorable.”
