Late Lokendra Singh Kalvi, the founder of Karni Sena, may have left us, but his legacy lives on.As he once mentioned to our Editor-in-Chief, The camaraderie I shared with Shree Giriraj Singh and others while building the Karni Sena remains a cherished part of my political journey. By the time Giriraj Singh Lotwara joined the Shri Rajput Sabha Bhawan, Karni Sena had already earned a reputation as the strongest and most organized social group. This reputation earned us the trust and confidence of society, making us a spirited contingent of pro-democracy individuals.
Giriraj Singh Lotwara and I worked together, attending events and striving towards the formation of the Rajput Society. However, our efforts to preserve the society’s unity were met with criticism over the ‘dual-member issue.’ While Giriraj Singh Lotwara Ji was seen as a liberal, I was labeled a ‘Rajput hardliner.’ This image hurt me initially, as it contradicted my true nature.
Conveying my feelings to the media proved challenging, but colleagues advised me not to fight the image problem. They believed that having one leader perceived as a hardliner would benefit the Karni Sena. Giriraj Singh’s decision to contest from Shri Rajput Sabha Bhawan, in addition to his traditional seat, touched me deeply. His public display of trust and solidarity energized the Rajput Sabha Bhawan, sending a strong message about unity.
From the public’s perspective, I am more of an ideologue than a mass leader. The Shri Rajput Karni Sena has transformed my profile in Indian politics. However, Giriraj Singh Lotwara was the youth leader, with a higher stature and greater acceptability among the masses. His appeal transcended traditional ideological support bases, making him acceptable to allies and the Rajput community.
Our relationship was built on mutual trust, respect, and a commitment to shared goals. Despite occasional differences in opinion, our bond remained strong. Three key factors contributed to this: our shared ideology, our ability to maintain mutual trust and respect, and my unwavering acceptance of Giriraj Ji as a friend.
I am deeply saddened by the loss of Giriraj Singh Lotwara Ji, an exceptional leader, friend, and guide. I offer my condolences to his family and pray for his soul to rest in peace.
Late Lokendra Singh Kalvi, Founder & Patron of Karni Sena
