Usually when a senior political leader returns to his home area after a long gap people give a warm welcome. Supporters gather with flowers and garlands and the mood feels festive. Many expect the same for Kodali Nani in Gudivada a place he represents for twenty years and wins four times.
But this time things look very different. When Nani visits Gudivada last Friday for the first time after the election there is no crowd no excitement and even some local leaders do not answer his calls. This quiet response shows that his influence may be falling.
There are two main reasons for this change. First Nani’s past actions and behavior upset many people. Second the current MLA Venigandla Ramu becomes more popular because he works for the people stays calm and avoids controversy. Many neutral voters now support Ramu because he is available and respectful to all.
Some of Nani’s old supporters now feel that being seen with him might bring legal trouble. Because of this many leaders stay away during his visit. A few of his followers post on social media that the visit is only for court work and not for public events so a welcome is not needed. But most people believe this is just a cover-up.
Locals feel the real reason is simple. Being close to Nani now brings no benefit and may even cause problems. The strong support he once enjoys is missing. The mood in Gudivada clearly shows that things are changing and Nani now faces a tough road ahead if he wants to regain his lost ground.
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