Congress leader Rahul Gandhi released a Diwali video on Friday, showing a warm moment with his nephew, Raihan Rajiv Vadra, the son of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Robert Vadra. The video, a rare glimpse into Raihan’s life, has led people to speculate that it might be a “soft launch” of the next-generation Gandhi-Vadra family member.
The timing of this video adds to its significance. It comes soon after Priyanka Gandhi Vadra filed her nomination for the Wayanad Lok Sabha by-election in October, stepping into electoral politics after her brother Rahul vacated the seat. Raihan, who has largely stayed out of the political limelight, made a public appearance in Wayanad to support his mother’s candidacy, accompanied by his father, Robert Vadra, and Rahul Gandhi.
At 24, Raihan Rajiv Vadra is known for his work as a visual artist and curator, with interests spanning wildlife, street, and commercial photography. According to his website, he has held solo exhibitions in New Delhi and Mumbai, quietly building a name in the art world away from political life.
In the Diwali video, Rahul Gandhi is seen guiding Raihan through the residence at 10, Janpath, where they acknowledge the efforts of painters, artisans, and workers who bring Diwali festivities to life. Rahul shares his thoughts on valuing the artisans behind festive traditions, showing Raihan earthen lamps he crafted with local potters in Uttam Nagar, West Delhi.
The clip captures Rahul’s desire to connect with everyday Indians and the often-overlooked work that enriches the festival. Rahul also reflects on his mixed feelings about 10, Janpath, the residence of his mother, Sonia Gandhi, where he has stayed since his disqualification as an MP in 2023.
एक दिवाली उनके साथ, जिनकी मेहनत से रौशन है भारत! pic.twitter.com/bfmmrjZD2S
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 1, 2024
The video has ignited public debate, with supporters and critics alike speculating about Raihan’s potential future in Congress. Observers on social media compared Raihan’s demeanor to that of a young Rahul Gandhi, noting his respectful and composed presence. Comments have surfaced on X (formerly Twitter), with some humorously predicting Raihan as a future Congress leader or prime ministerial candidate.
Though Raihan Vadra has stayed out of political engagement, this public introduction has sparked curiosity about whether he might carry forward the family’s legacy. For now, this Diwali video serves as a rare look into his life, raising questions about his future in the Congress party and adding another chapter to the Gandhi-Vadra legacy.
