Shaina NC, BJP Leader, Shiv Sena-Shinde Candidate From Mumbadevi

The Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena on Monday announced 13 additional candidates for the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections, scheduled for 20 November. Among the notable candidates is Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokesperson Shaina NC, who will contest the Mumbadevi constituency on a Shiv Sena ticket. This development signifies a political shift, as Shaina NC steps into the race from a seat historically held by the Congress since 2009. Congress’ Ameen Patel represents the constituency for the last three terms.

The Mumbadevi constituency is part of the Mumbai South Lok Sabha seat and holds strategic importance in the state elections. Shaina NC’s candidacy comes as part of the alliance between the BJP and the Shiv Sena faction led by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The Shiv Sena had previously announced 20 candidates in a separate list, further consolidating its position against the opposing Shiv Sena (UBT) faction led by Uddhav Thackeray.  BJP-led Mahayuti coalition also consists of Ajit Pawar-led NCP and Shiv Sena- Shinde.

In other high-profile match-ups, Milind Deora, a Rajya Sabha MP, will contest against Aaditya Thackeray in the Worli constituency. Sanjay Nirupam has been nominated for the Dindoshi seat, while Nilesh Rane, son of former Maharashtra Chief Minister Narayan Rane, will contest from Kudal.

Shaina NC, a renowned fashion designer and social activist, has been with the BJP since 2004, serving in key roles, including spokesperson and treasurer of the party’s Maharashtra unit. Born in Mumbai, she is dubbed as the “Queen of Drapes” and gained fame for her innovative sari draping styles and has made a name for herself in the world of fashion.

Her political career is marked by active participation in media debates, where she advocates for BJP policies on various social and economic issues.