In a significant political shift ahead of the Bengal polls, tennis legend Leander Paes has joined the BJP after quitting the Trinamool Congress. In a heartfelt video message, Paes identified himself as a “proud Bengali” and a “son of the soil,” reciting lines from Michael Madhusudan Dutt’s famous poem ‘Banga Bhasha’.

Highlighting his deep-rooted connection with Kolkata, Paes reminisced about his schooling at La Martiniere and training at South Club. He mentioned that his mother, Jennifer Paes, was a Bengali and shared an ancestral link with the legendary poet Michael Madhusudan Dutt. “My father, Vece Paes, played hockey for Mohun Bagan, which instilled in me the spirit to play for the country,” he said.

After meeting PM Narendra Modi, Paes expressed his gratitude, stating that he feels fortunate to work under his leadership. He emphasized that this is the right time to empower India’s youth and strengthen the nation. Reflecting on his journey since 1986, Paes remarked that while Bengal has progressed, there is still immense potential to grow, particularly in promoting women in sports.