The Aryavarth Express New Delhi [India], March 31: Indian tennis legend Leander Paes has officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), marking a new chapter in his career as he steps into active politics ahead of upcoming elections.
Paes, who had previously entered politics in 2021 with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) led by Mamata Banerjee, made the switch in the presence of Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Sukanta Majumdar.
Calling it a “big day” in his life, Paes expressed gratitude to the party leadership for giving him an opportunity to contribute to sports development, sports education, and youth empowerment. He emphasized his desire to continue serving the country beyond his four-decade-long sporting career.
Welcoming him into the party, Rijiju said Paes’ presence would strengthen initiatives like the Khelo India Movement, adding that the tennis icon could play a significant role in promoting sports across the country.
Majumdar also praised Paes, noting his influence on youth, particularly in Bengal, and highlighted his lineage as a descendant of noted 19th-century poet Michael Madhusudan Dutt.
Paes, reflecting on India’s sporting landscape, stressed the need for improved infrastructure and long-term investment in sports education. He also shared his vision of launching scholarship programs to promote equal opportunities, especially for women in sports.
One of India’s most decorated tennis players, Paes has received several prestigious honors, including the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, Arjuna Award, Padma Shri, and Padma Bhushan.
His move signals a significant crossover from sports to politics, as he looks to influence the country’s youth and sporting future from a new platform.
