City netas make a beeline for fortune-tellers ahead of BBMP polls
City netas make a beeline for fortune-tellers ahead of BBMP polls Astrologers like S Pandiyan, are making big money advising politicians contesting the city civic elections.
Following the time-honoured tradition of making hay while the sun shines,u00a0 astrologers in Bangalore are making money hands over fist as politicians hurry to get their futures revealed.
The astrologers are in demand as the BBMP polls are four days away. The politicians are viewing their act as a form of devotion.
"Elections and exams are no different," said Satyanarayan Rao, an astrologer, who is being consulted by poll aspirants ever since the polls were announced.
Former PM, Deve Gowda and former CM, HD Kumaraswamy have been practicing this ritual for a long time now.
Making time
Aspirants are following it so diligently that they are setting apart time from their busy campaign schedules for rituals astrologers recommend.
"I'm performing rituals at Peddamma Gudi (Peddamma temple) after my astrologer advised me to do so," said Ramesh Yadav, a BJP candidate.
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"I have been advised that my chances of winning will increase if I perform rituals to Grama Devathe (village deity).
However, when Mid-Day contacted the astrologers, one of them said that the issues the leaders came with were related to money.
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"The exercise begins from the time the polls are announced. "They mainly consult us on money matters," added Shripathi Bhat, another astrologer.
"The exercise began since polls were announced. They seek our advice to decide their moves.
After seeking advice, those who have bright chances of winning don't bother to spend huge amounts. Others who don't find hopes settle for offers from favorite candidates in the fray and back out."
What's in store?
The astrologers stated that it wasn't only individuals but also parties who are approaching them for future predictions.
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Astrologers though are giving their consultations to contestants; don't have good news to any of parties. They predict a coalition council.
"As per my predictions, no party will get a majority," added Shripathi Bhat. "JD (S) and Congress are likely to form the council as coalition partners."u00a0 Independents, who are considerably large in number will play a key role.
Independents rule
"Independents will certainly have their say," added Satyanarayan Rao.
"The parties to form council will require their support even if they come together. This polls will have reasonable number of independent candidates in council."
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