Ravi Kishan Controversy: CM Yogi’s Joke

Ravi Kishan Controversy: CM Yogi’s Joke, Political Reactions & Full Story

In May 2025, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath humorously referred to Gorakhpur MP Ravi Kishan as “132 years old” during a public event, sparking widespread reactions. The comment, made in jest, highlighted the playful dynamic between the two BJP leaders but also led to debates on social media about political camaraderie and public perception.

Ravi Kishan Controversy, article covers:
✔ What exactly CM Yogi said about Ravi Kishan
✔ Context behind the “132 years” remark
✔ Ravi Kishan’s political journey & achievements
✔ Public and political reactions
✔ Impact on BJP’s image in Uttar Pradesh

1. What Happened? CM Yogi’s “Ravi Kishan Controversy” Comment

Ravi Kishan Controversy, Event Details

• Date: May 11, 2025
• Location: Gorakhpur (during the foundation stone-laying ceremony of Yog Bhavan at Paramahansa Yogananda’s birthplace).
• Context: CM Yogi was praising Gorakhpur’s development when he teased Ravi Kishan, saying:

“Ramgarh Taal’s Sheesh Mahal is now built. Maybe the MP is seeing it for the first time. Has he ever visited before? No one is 132 years old except Ravi Kishan. You voted for him, but he never met you. How many people did he invite for meals? Today, he has come.”.

Ravi Kishan Controversy ???

• The comment was a light-hearted dig at Kishan’s long political career and perceived absence from Gorakhpur.
• Yogi implied Kishan had been around longer than humanly possible, exaggerating for comedic effect.

2. Political Context: Yogi & Ravi Kishan’s Relationship

From Rivals to Allies

• 2019: Ravi Kishan, a former Congress member, joined BJP and won Gorakhpur (a seat previously held by Yogi Adityanath).
• 2024: He retained the seat by 1 lakh votes against SP’s Kajal Nishad.
• Despite initial resistance from Gorakhnath Temple loyalists, Kishan has since aligned with Yogi’s vision.

Frequent Friendly Banter

• This isn’t the first time Yogi has joked about Kishan:
  • Once teased him about land price hikes in Gorakhpur.
  • Playfully urged him to take a dip in the Ganga during Kumbh Mela.

3. Public & Political Reactions

Supporters’ Take

• Many saw it as harmless humor reflecting a strong mentor-protégé bond.
• BJP workers called it “typical Yogi style”—blunt yet affectionate.

Opposition’s Criticism

• Samajwadi Party (SP) accused Yogi of “mocking an elected MP”.
• Some social media users questioned if the joke masked underlying tensions.

Ravi Kishan’s Response

• Kishan laughed it off, calling Yogi a “great leader with a sense of humor.”
• Later, he praised Yogi for developing Gorakhpur as a tourism hub (referencing Paramahansa Yogananda’s legacy).

4. Ravi Kishan’s Political Journey

Key Milestones

• 2014: Lost from Jaunpur as a Congress candidate (secured only 4.25% votes).
• 2017: Joined BJP, won Gorakhpur in 2019 and 2024.
• 2025: Received Sansad Ratna Award for parliamentary performance.

Controversies

• Faced backlash for switching parties (Congress → BJP).
• His Bhojpuri film background was initially mocked but later became an asset.

5. Why This Matters for UP Politics

BJP’s Gorakhpur Strategy

• Yogi’s joke subtly reinforced his dominance while keeping Kishan in check.
• The lighthearted tone prevented any public rift before the 2027 UP elections.

Public Perception

• Voters saw it as leaders being relatable, not divisive.
• Contrasts with SP’s serious tone, giving BJP a rhetorical edge.

Conclusion: More Than Just a Joke

CM Yogi’s “132 years” remark was a masterclass in political messaging:

1. Strengthened camaraderie with Kishan without undermining him.
2. Highlighted Gorakhpur’s development as a shared achievement.
3. Neutralized opposition criticism with humor.

Key Takeaways:

• The comment was not malicious but part of Yogi’s blunt yet witty style.
• Ravi Kishan’s mature response solidified his position as a loyal BJP MP.
• Such banter humanizes politicians in voters’ eyes.

FAQs

Q1. Was Yogi Adityanath serious about Ravi Kishan being 132?

• No, it was a joke about Kishan’s long career.

Q2. How old is Ravi Kishan actually?

• Born July 17, 1969 (currently 55).

Q3. Did Ravi Kishan take offense?

• No, he laughed and praised Yogi’s leadership.

Q4. Has Yogi joked about Kishan before?

• Yes, about land prices and Kumbh Mela.

Q5. Will this affect BJP in UP?

• Unlikely—it reinforced party unity.

About The Author

Sanashh

See author's posts