Lucknow Welcomes Priyanka With Rose Petals and Marigold Garlands
Some posters showed Priyanka Gandhi as Goddess Durga.
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As Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's cavalcade rolled through the streets of Lucknow – the capital of politically crucial Uttar Pradesh on Monday, 11 February, Congress workers showered rose petals and threw marigold garlands at her, celebrating her much-awaited political debut.
Priyanka Gandhi, accompanied by Congress president Rahul Gandhi and in-charge of the state's western region Jyotiraditya Scindia, waved and smiled.
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Immediately after the 25-km journey began, supporters began taking vantage points through the route to click photographs for posterity.
Congress workers had been busy making arrangements for the roadshow since early morning. They were seen distributing food packets, tea and water to passers-by.
Patriotic songs were played on loudspeakers, elevating the mood of supporters.
Some posters showed Priyanka Gandhi as Goddess Durga.
‘Priyanka is Maa Durga's Incarnation’
"Maa Durga ka roop behen Priyankaji (Sister Priyanka is Maa Durga's incarnation)," read a poster. Another highlighted her resemblance with her grandmother Indira Gandhi.
Congress workers were seen wearing T-shirts with photographs of Priyanka Gandhi. Members of "Priyanka Sena," a little-known organisation of her supporters, were also seen during the roadshow.
"With the Priyanka Sena at the Nehru Bhawan, Lucknow it is almost celebration here," tweeted Sushmita Dev, President of All India Mahila Congress.
Congress General Secretary Shailendra Tewari decorated his car to welcome Priyanka Gandhi. The banner on the vehicle read: "Aagai Priyanka. Baj gaya danka. Brashtachaar ki ab lagegi Lanka."
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