Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is no stranger to the spotlight, often grabbing attention for his unique fashion choices. Unlike most political leaders who opt for the traditional white kurta-pyjama, Gandhi has made a mark with his casual style—jeans, T-shirts, and sports shoes. However, this sartorial preference has frequently become fodder for criticism, particularly from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
The latest controversy revolves around a picture of Gandhi’s sports shoes, which has gone viral on social media. The claim? That the shoes are worth a whopping ₹3 lakhs. The post, shared widely on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, includes a snapshot of the shoes alongside the alleged price.
Fact-Checking the Claim
A fact-check reveals that the viral claim is far from the truth. The shoes in question belong to a Swiss brand and are available on Nykaa Man for ₹22,949. Their price range generally falls between ₹14,000 and ₹27,000. The inflated figure of ₹3 lakhs, as shared in the viral post, has been proven false.
This is not the first time Gandhi’s wardrobe choices have come under scrutiny. In 2018, the Meghalaya BJP unit targeted him over a jacket allegedly priced at $995 (around ₹60,000). More recently, during the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Gandhi faced criticism for wearing a Burberry T-shirt worth ₹41,000.
Political Jabs Over Fashion
Gandhi’s unconventional fashion has often made him an easy target for BJP leaders and their supporters. The ruling party frequently uses his attire as a talking point to question his connection with the common man. While some see this as a trivial attack, others argue it reflects the broader political strategy of questioning Gandhi’s credibility and relatability.
Social Media Reactions
The social media buzz over Gandhi’s shoes has been a mix of humor, criticism, and defense. While BJP supporters have mocked the Congress leader for his “expensive taste,” Gandhi’s supporters have dismissed the controversy as a distraction from more pressing issues.
Bigger Picture: Style vs. Substance
This recurring debate over Gandhi’s clothing raises questions about the intersection of politics and personal style. While it’s undeniable that appearances matter in public life, the focus on attire often detracts from substantive discussions on policy and governance.
For now, Rahul Gandhi’s shoes are the latest in a series of controversies that highlight the curious intersection of politics, fashion, and social media in India. Whether this focus on style helps or hinders his political image remains to be seen.