Distinguished actor Rajkummar Rao, renowned for his remarkable portrayal of a principled government clerk in the Hindi film “Newton,” is set to receive the prestigious title of National Icon from the Election Commission (EC). This accolade underlines his outstanding efforts to encourage citizen engagement in the democratic process and uphold the values of democracy in India.
The Election Commission of India has a longstanding tradition of appointing prominent individuals as National Icons. These icons serve as role models, inspiring and motivating citizens to actively participate in the democratic process, emphasizing the importance of voting and nurturing a sense of duty towards the nation.
Rajkummar Rao’s portrayal in “Newton” deeply resonated with both audiences and critics. He portrayed the character of an upright government official, unwavering in his commitment to conducting free and impartial elections in the Naxal-affected regions of Chhattisgarh, despite facing numerous adversities. His dedication in the face of cynicism and apathy from security forces earned him widespread acclaim.
“Newton,” the film that catapulted Rajkummar Rao into the limelight, not only received acclaim from Indian audiences but also gained international recognition. The movie was honored with the prestigious National Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi, a testament to its exceptional storytelling and thought-provoking narrative. Additionally, it was India’s official entry for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the 90th Academy Awards, widely known as the Oscars.
The formal induction of Rajkummar Rao as an EC National Icon is scheduled for October 26th. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar will bestow this honor upon the actor, recognizing his outstanding contribution in advocating for the importance of free and fair elections in India.
With this recognition, Rajkummar Rao joins the ranks of other distinguished individuals acknowledged by the Election Commission. Notable figures previously honored include actors like Pankaj Tripathi and Aamir Khan, as well as sports legends such as Sachin Tendulkar, M. S. Dhoni, and M. C. Mary Kom, all of whom have made remarkable contributions to their respective fields and actively supported civic engagement.
Earlier this month, the EC revealed that a staggering 161 million citizens across five states are poised to cast their votes in the upcoming assembly elections. The Chhattisgarh elections are scheduled for November 7th and 17th. Madhya Pradesh and Telangana will hold elections on November 17th and 30th, respectively, while Rajasthan’s elections are set for December 25th, with the vote count expected to take place on December 3rd.