Newton just got real as Rajkumar Rao becomes the Election Commission icon

Determined Newton Kumar, played by Raj Kumar Rao, countered Assistant Commandant Aatma Singh, played by Pankaj Tripathi, "likh ke dijiye koi nahi aayega vote dene, mai ye Collector office mein submit kar deta hoon," when the CRPF officer tried to pursue Newton, a polling staff, that none of the 76 voters would turn up to vote in the Naxal-affected area.

This very Hindi dialogue, which means, "Write it down, nobody is gonna come (to vote), I will submit it to the Collectorate myself," from the 2017 dark comedy Newton remains a remarkable one.

The dialogue:

Not just this dialogue or the scene, but the film and its impactful messaging were centered around participatory democracy and voter awareness.  

Rajkumar ECI icon

• Six years down the line, the Election Commission of India, named 'Newton Kumar' the National Icon of the ECI. In less than two months 5 states, including Naxal-infested Chattisgarh go to the polls, where 'Newton Kumar' had been before.

ALSO READ: Elections in MP, Rajasthan, and Telangana to be held from November 7, results on December 3

• Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana and Mizoram will see simultaneous assembly polls in the run-up to the 2024 General Elections.

Raj as Newton

• From the beginning of the film, Newton's passion for democracy is evident as he willingly takes on the responsibility of election duty in the Naxal-infested jungle (dandakaranya) of Chattisgarh. His commitment, which other characters called 'stubbornness' was a recurring theme throughout the movie.

• Throughout the film, Newton is determined to conduct free and fair polls, which is demonstrated in various scenes, such as when he sets up the polling booth and ensures the proper functioning of the election process.
• Newton also attempts to educate the local villagers about the significance of the election, despite their lack of interest.
• Later in the film, after escaping from a Naxal ambush, Newton tries to return to the polling booth to collect votes, even when it puts his safety at risk.

Not just Newton

• Rajkummar Rao has been acclaimed for his roles in films like "Shahid," "Omerta," "Aligarh," and "City Lights," which explore socio-economic and political themes.
• His portrayals of real-life figures and characters facing complex issues have earned him critical acclaim.
• His choice of roles and exceptional performances highlight his commitment to impactful cinema and the messages it intends to deliver.

As Raj makes the transition from his portrayal of election conduct in reel life to actively promoting electoral awareness in real life, it remains to be seen how he intends to uphold the values he championed on screen.