For the past few years, political theatrics have increasingly resembled movie plots, on the lines of 'action and revenge' but real life is far more complex.
Pitifully, some leaders seem more focused on performing heroics for social media applause than on earning the trust of the people.
Former CM YS Jagan and the present Minister Nara Lokesh may differ in image, but both face criticism for prioritizing the projection of personal heroism over genuine party image building.
Chandrababu Naidu’s political career may be in its twilight, but Lokesh is still seen as a rising star within the TDP.
Yet, instead of sober strategy, over the top praise from loyalists risks clouding judgment, just as blind flattery once helped reduce Jagan’s strength from 151 seats to 11.
The recent Pulivendula ZPTC by-election victory is being celebrated as if YSRCP fortress has fallen. They say that YS Jagan did similar thing in Kuppam in his regime and this is Lokesh's retaliation for the same.
But politics is not about cinematic conquests; it is about sustained trust, long term vision and inclusive governance.
If leaders ignore this truth, they may thrill their base but alienate the neutral voters who decide real battles.
The hard lesson of history is that power gained through arrogance and showmanship is always temporary.
In politics, applause fades, but consequences remain; and those consequences are decided not by cheering fans, but by the quiet, watchful citizens whose verdict matters most.