Amit Shah: The Mastermind Strategist and ‘Chanakya’ Behind BJP’s Meteoric Rise

Lucknow, October 22 (TNA) Amit Shah’s political journey is a compelling story of strategic brilliance, perseverance, and adept leadership, earning him the epithet “Chanakya” of Indian politics. Beginning his career in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in the early 1980s, Shah soon established himself as a formidable organiser and strategist within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

His early roles included managing election campaigns and strengthening the party’s base in Gujarat, where he was elected as MLA multiple times and held crucial portfolios, including Home and Transport. Shah’s rise from state politics to national prominence was marked by his appointment as the BJP National President in 2014.

Under his stewardship, the party expanded its footprint significantly, winning crucial state elections and carving a dominant position in the Lok Sabha. His reputation as a political strategist was cemented when the BJP achieved unprecedented success in the 2014 and 2019 general elections.

In 2019, Amit Shah was appointed Union Home Minister. In this role, he has overseen some of the most decisive and controversial reforms in recent Indian history—most notably, the abrogation of Article 370, which revoked Jammu and Kashmir’s special status, and amendments to the Citizenship Act. These actions reflected his pragmatism, strategic acumen, and willingness to take bold steps aligned with the party’s long-term vision.

The “Chanakya” tag attributed to him references the ancient Indian strategist and mentor credited with shaping political thought and governance. Like his namesake, Amit Shah is respected for his deep understanding of political dynamics, power consolidation, and tactical execution. His influence extends beyond policy-making into shaping electoral strategy, party organisation, and coalition-building—a hallmark of his multifaceted leadership.

Amit Shah’s journey is emblematic of modern political statecraft, balancing grassroots mobilisation with national governance. His deep loyalty to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP’s vision has made him indispensable in shaping India’s political landscape in the 21st century. The “Chanakya of Indian politics” remains a key figure to watch, as his decisions and strategies continue to impact India’s future profoundly.