Ranchi: The state is abuzz with political activity ahead of the civic body polls scheduled later this month, and more so after a doppelgänger of chief minister Hemant Soren entered the poll fray from Ward No. 52 of the Ranchi Municipal Council (RMC).Identified as Munna Lohar, this 52-year-old councillor candidate is counting on his accidental resemblance to secure a win in the upcoming civic polls. According to many, it is difficult to differentiate between Hemant and Munna at first glance.A resident of Hatia and a theatre artiste by profession, Munna entered the field on the last day of the nomination process on Wednesday. As he came out of the collectorate building after filling his nomination, he was surrounded by people looking at him in awe.“Ranchiites, especially the voters of Ward 52, know me very well both for my CM-like appearance and my stage performances. On Wednesday, as I was leaving the collectorate, many approached me and took selfies. I am hoping this charm works in my favour and helps me win the election, so that I can serve the people,” an elated Munna told TOI.In 2022, he also acted in a short film titled ‘Noise – The Rickshawala’ in the lead role.“Later in 2024, the director told me to grow a beard for a sequel to the same film. So I did. During that time, Hemant dada (CM) walked out of jail in a new avatar, with long hair and a beard, exactly like mine. Suddenly, my neighbours started calling me ‘Hemant Soren Junior’ because of my looks, and thus coincidentally, I became his lookalike,” Munna said.Gradually, Munna became so popular in the city and on social media that the CM himself once invited him to meet at his residence in Sept 2024. Recalling the first meeting with Hemant, Munna said, “I was afraid to meet him, thinking he would scold me. But he hugged me and said, “’Mere Chhota bhai kaha Kumbh Mela mein kho gaye the, aao baitho’. After that, all my fears disappeared. I got to know the generous and humble side of Hemant dada.”As Munna now enters the poll race, he is determined to focus on many pertinent issues, ranging from open drains and the absence of street lights to the safety of women, as his poll agenda. He wanted to provide solutions after securing the councillor’s post.“I have so far been raising awareness about many social issues through street plays and theatrical performances. But this time, I am determined to bring solutions to the civic issues rather than just talking about them. I am sure Ward No. 52 voters will give me a chance to serve them,” a confident Munna said.
