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During this election season in Bengal, the animal kingdom is rallying citizens to exercise their democratic rights and navigate polling stations.

 

Across the state, District Election Sections employ various mascots, predominantly animals, to attract voters to the booths. In Alipurduar district, 'Gendu,' inspired by the rhinoceros of Dooars, is leading the charge. Meanwhile, in Coochbehar district, 'Mohanbao,' a turtle, is a guiding beacon for voters.

 

The majestic Bengal tiger, Baghu, roars encouragement to the people of South 24 Parganas district, nestled in the Sunderbans. Meanwhile, in the serene hills of Darjeeling, a red panda mobilises voters.

 

An election official said, "Our campaign highlights Bengal's rich cultural diversity and aims to motivate voters to participate in the electoral process."

 

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"Instead of formal language, we are trying to reach out to voters with characters that are closer to their hearts. We believe the effect will be much more," she added.

 

In Jalpaiguri district, the election mascot 'Teesta' is named after the region's lifeline river, symbolising its importance. Meanwhile, in the Kolkata Uttar constituency, Tenida, a fictional character from Potoldanga, motivates first-time voters to embrace their civic duty.

 

Nadia's mascot, 'Vote Gopal,' draws inspiration from the legendary court jester Gopal Bhar of medieval Bengal. Howrah sees 'Batul the Great,' a beloved comic strip character created by Narayan Debnath, encouraging voter participation.

 

Purba Medinipur's coastal district employs a character embodying the spirit of crabs to boost voter turnout, while Hooghly district features the Jagannath Rath of Mahesh alongside Election Commission messages on hoardings and posters.

 

In Bankura, 'Ghotoknath,' inspired by the famed terracotta horses, urges citizens to cast their votes and celebrates the district's rich cultural heritage.

 

"Such initiatives raise awareness among the people not only about elections but also about their area's heritage, culture and natural resources," said Anjana Brahma, a professor of Bengali at KK Das College in Kolkata.