Tennis legend Leander Paes to join BJP as Bengal 2026 poll battle heats up

Leander Paes is joining the Bharatiya Janata Party today. This marks his entry into active politics.

Key takeaways

Quick scan — what you need to know:

• Leander Paes is joining the Bharatiya Janata Party today.
• This marks his entry into active politics.
• Paes is a celebrated athlete with numerous Grand Slam titles and an Olympic medal.
• His move is seen as strategic for the party.

Background

What led here, in plain terms:

• He will now begin a new chapter in public service.
• His transition follows a trend of sportspersons entering politics.
• Leander Paes is joining the Bharatiya Janata Party today.
• This marks his entry into active politics.

Why it matters

Why readers and decision-makers should care:

• Paes is a celebrated athlete with numerous Grand Slam titles and an Olympic medal.
• His move is seen as strategic for the party.
• He will now begin a new chapter in public service.