Hemant Soren Doppelgänger Munna Lohar Files Nomination for Ranchi Civic Body Elections
Ranchi is witnessing a surge in political excitement as the city prepares for upcoming municipal council polls scheduled later this month. The electoral atmosphere has intensified with an unusual candidate entering the fray: Munna Lohar, a 52-year-old theatre artist who bears an uncanny resemblance to Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren.
Accidental Resemblance Becomes Political Asset
Identified as Munna Lohar, this councillor candidate from Ward No. 52 of the Ranchi Municipal Council is leveraging his striking similarity to the state's top leader as his primary campaign strategy. Many observers note that at first glance, it becomes challenging to distinguish between Hemant Soren and Munna Lohar, creating a unique political dynamic in the constituency.
A resident of Hatia and professional theatre performer, Munna submitted his nomination on the final day of the filing process. As he emerged from the collectorate building after completing formalities, he found himself surrounded by curious onlookers who marveled at his appearance, with many requesting selfies with the CM lookalike.
From Theatre Stages to Political Arena
"The voters of Ranchi, particularly those in Ward 52, recognize me well for both my resemblance to the Chief Minister and my theatrical performances," an enthusiastic Munna explained. "When I left the collectorate, numerous people approached me for photographs. I'm optimistic that this public fascination will translate into electoral support, enabling me to serve the community effectively."
Munna's journey to becoming a political candidate has been unconventional. In 2022, he starred as the lead in a short film titled 'Noise - The Rickshawala.' The following year, the director requested he grow a beard for a sequel to the film. Coincidentally, during this period, Chief Minister Hemant Soren emerged from legal proceedings sporting a similar long-haired, bearded appearance.
"My neighbors began calling me 'Hemant Soren Junior' because of our matching looks," Munna recalled. "Thus, quite unexpectedly, I became his official lookalike."
Meeting the Real Hemant Soren
As Munna's popularity grew throughout Ranchi and on social media platforms, the Chief Minister himself extended an invitation for a meeting at his official residence in September 2024. Munna initially approached this encounter with apprehension, fearing potential disapproval from the political leader.
"I was nervous about meeting him, thinking he might reprimand me," Munna confessed. "Instead, he embraced me warmly and said, 'My younger brother was lost at the Kumbh Mela, come sit down.' That moment dissolved all my fears and revealed Hemant dada's generous and humble character."
Civic Issues Take Center Stage in Campaign
Now officially in the electoral race, Munna Lohar has outlined a comprehensive agenda focused on pressing local concerns. His platform addresses multiple civic challenges including open drainage systems, inadequate street lighting, and women's safety measures throughout the ward.
"Throughout my career, I've raised awareness about social issues through street plays and theatrical performances," Munna stated with conviction. "This time, I'm determined to implement practical solutions to civic problems rather than merely discussing them. I'm confident the voters of Ward No. 52 will grant me the opportunity to serve them effectively."
The upcoming Ranchi Municipal Council elections promise to be particularly intriguing with this unique candidate in the mix, blending political aspirations with theatrical flair and an extraordinary physical resemblance to the state's most prominent political figure.
