C Pradeep Kumar
cpk007@gmail.com
Vijayawada
As the Telugu Desam Party’s (TDP) biennial conclave, Mahanadu, unfolds in YSR Kadapa, a distinct shift in the party’s internal dynamics is becoming increasingly evident — the spotlight has firmly shifted to Nara Lokesh, the party’s national general secretary and current IT Minister of Andhra Pradesh.
From his enthusiastic road journey from Kuppam to Kadapa to the electrifying reception at the Mahanadu venue, Lokesh’s presence has clearly overshadowed all others. Massive cutouts of Lokesh, placed alongside those of his father and party supremo N Chandrababu Naidu and TDP founder NT Rama Rao, are more than symbolic — they signal a likely transition of leadership within the party.
Lokesh’s speech stood out not only for its brevity and clarity but also for its strategic messaging. While Naidu dwelt on the party’s legacy and governance agenda, Lokesh looked ahead — unveiling a “six-pillar resolution” focused on youth, women, farmers, empowerment, and the party’s organisational renewal. The crowd’s response was nothing short of rapturous.
There is now a growing chorus within the party for Lokesh to be officially named the working president of TDP. Senior ministers, including Nimmala Ramanaidu and Dola Sri Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy, openly endorsed Lokesh’s leadership, crediting his “Yuva Galam” padayatra for reconnecting with the grassroots and energising the party base, especially the youth.
They see in Lokesh a natural heir to take the party into the next generation, allowing Naidu to focus on administrative priorities.
Assembly Chief Whip GV Anjaneyulu and several senior leaders have echoed these sentiments, confirming they will press for a formal announcement before Mahanadu concludes. Within the party politburo, the mood appears unanimous — Lokesh’s elevation would institutionalise a youth-led model while strengthening the party’s administrative-political balance.
With Mahanadu serving as the TDP’s most strategic platform, the stage seems set for a generational shift. An announcement naming Lokesh as Working President may be imminent, heralding a new era for the TDP under the stewardship of its emerging leader.
