Former Delhi Minister and senior AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj released the first episode of Berozgar Netaji, on Thursday. The video released on YouTube, headlines a one-of-a-kind series that offers an unfiltered, first-person narrative of the trials, emotions, and deep introspection following his unexpected electoral defeat on February eight. The AAP has started a YouTube channel after his loss in the recent elections.
The first episode not only captures the shock and dismay of a seasoned politician like him but also delves into the broader implications of unemployment in an industry where every minute counts.
In his inaugural episode, Bharadwaj recounts the fateful day at the counting center— that redefined his political career.
“Until February 8, the idea of defeat never even crossed my mind. All our preparations, media interactions, and public engagements had led us to believe in a decisive victory,” he explains.
However, as the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) were opened and numbers were tallied across 12 machines, he observed a subtle yet unsettling discrepancy.
“During the first round of counting, I realized that my lead wasn’t as robust as it should have been. By the second round, the reality of a tight contest became undeniable,” he states.
The gradual realization that the election was slipping away was compounded by the visible emotional strain on his counting agents, many of whom were overwhelmed with tears. Choosing to shield himself from further distress, he maintained his distance as he awaited the final verdict. Bharadwaj’s narrative goes beyond mere numbers and also sheds light on the human cost of a professional setback. His recounting reveals the profound emotional toll of defeat—not just on himself, but on everyone who had placed their hope in him.
“The first thought that struck me as I left the counting center was the fear of facing my daughter. For a young girl, a father is her hero, and the idea that her hero had just lost was almost unbearable,” he shares.
In a poignant moment, he recalls his daughter’s silent resilience: despite the news, she simply hugged him and said, “Papa, I love you.”
In the aftermath of the results announcement, Bharadwaj faced mixed reactions.
While a few disparaging chants emerged from rival supporters, his commitment to gratitude and resilience prevailed.
Determined to listen to his supporters, the former Minister organized a meeting on the following Sunday.
What he describes as one of the most emotionally charged gatherings of his career, the meeting brought together a cross-section of his supporters—from impassioned youth to tearful elderly citizens.
Berozgar Netaji also addresses a rarely discussed but critical issue: the future of full-time politicians after an electoral defeat.
The YouTube channel 'Berozgar NetaJi' will have daily discussions on different topics, allowing people to interact with Bharadwaj.
Viewers will be able to send in their questions and suggestions, making it an open space for political discussions.
According to Bharadwaj, he is now 'unemployed' and wants to share how a politician’s life changes after losing an election. Bharadwaj, who holds a B.Tech in Computer Science and a law degree, candidly admits that he never prepared for the possibility of loss.