Mumbai: Anil Baburao Bhosle, hailing from village Latur in Maharashtra, came to Mumbai over three decades ago and took up social work to help people from different walks of life, while also continuing to work as a painter.

He joined the BJP and worked there for 32 years before deciding to take the plunge into politics by contesting the Mira-Bhayander municipal Corporation elections  in Thane district adjoining Mumbai.

 However, when he was refused a party ticket by the BJP twice, he decided to contest as an independent by choosing the rickshaw as his election symbol. 

Then, when he held a public rally, he was surprised to see host of around a 100 to 150  rickshaws following him in support of his candidature.

Another surprise came in the form of local people including women in large numbers walking in his rally. 

Bhosle defeated the three time sitting corporator Mira Devi Ramlal Yadav with a difference of 881 votes when he secured 6141 votes against his rival’s 5260 votes. His supporters attributed his win to his attitude of being like a “Big brother” giving generous support and standing up for poor people at any time of the day or night.