Her name suggests her demeanour. She is Preetinanda Routray, who has just descended into the battle of BMC elections. Armed with a smile on her face, she wins the hearts of the voters. In an interview to The Pioneer, she spoke about the reasons of her journey to public life from the cloistered walls of singing and cultural extravaganza.
What made you to join politics and public life when you were quite content with your world of songs and musicIJ
I am a singer by birth and training; so I can win the hearts of people. From the very childhood days, I was inspired by the service towards the people rendered selflessly by my father Dr Damodar Rout. The spotless image and work culture of Naveen Patnaikji has attracted people so much that I too desired to work under his leadership.
Why did you opt for the BJDIJ
My family with my parents we all belong to the “Biju Pariwar” as we were associated long since with Bijubabu whose exploits and legends have inspired me to join this party. I had no choice but to join the Biju Pariwar as a matter of tradition.
How would you like to solve people’s problems as a corporatorIJ
You see, I have been experiencing the hazards of road, drains, etc., in this area. I have also associated myself which the people of this area and know very well about their problems. I would like to change the environment, the scenario of Ward No. 6 as the local corporator. That would be my first and foremost duty.
With your background, you could have very well begun with a MlA ticket instead.
You see, I believe in grassroots transformation. I have to begin with as a corporator and solve the problems and predicaments of the people of my locality instead of being on a MlA ticket.
Will not your artistic talent suffer owing to your joining the heat and dust of politicsIJ
I do not believe in the fact that if you are an artist, you cannot do politics. Art is something latent and potent in oneself. You take the case of Naveenji, who is both a good painter and a famous writer. I hope it is not difficult to combine both.
What do you think about your winning prospectsIJ
My chances of winning are very bright because I have the ‘Conch’ symbol of the BJD by my side. Besides, I am a hard worker and have appealed to all the electorate of my ward to vote for me if I meet them personally or not. They have their blessings for me.