Today marks the culmination of a long campaign for 2014 Lok Sabha Elections. I addressed my final rally in Ballia, the land of the hero of 1857 Mangal Pandey, in Eastern UP.

The fact that Narendra Modi belongs to the OBC community is a major cause of worry to the Congress Party. Though Narendra Modi has never made caste as his identity and his appeal cuts across castes and communities, the Congress worry is apparent. The ruling dynasty of the Congress cannot digest defeat at the hands of a commoner. It is therefore that they made his humble origin as a tea vendor into an issue. The move backfired.

The Election Commission has a huge responsibility as an agency which conducts the polls and which acts as a regulator during the elections. Over the years the Election Commission of India has achieved high standards of credibility. It conducts the elections in an efficient manner.

Election times are opportunities for raising issues of governance. However, there are many who see virtues in polarization. Regrettably, we in the BJP are accused of benefitting from polarization even if polarization is encouraged by political opponents.

There are some clear 'dont's' for mature politics and statecraft. Arrogance is to be avoided. Humility is always a preferred option. Vadra's statement on Smriti Irani denying her existence by asking a question "who" displays arrogance at its worst? 

Let all roads lead to Amethi. As campaigning for the last two phases for the 2014 elections reaches a climax all roads now must lead to Amethi.

Five years as Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha has been a great learning experience for me. Being in Opposition is an experience by itself. You have to be vigilant and well informed. A lot of informants come to you with information.

There is a streak of misguided aggression which most of us had in our younger years. Even when you lost a cricket match or an argument you would come back home with a satisfaction of having given a mouthful to the other side. As one matures you realize the virtues of understatement, wit and sarcasm. These are always a preferred option to being downright discourteous.

It is mentioned in several election speeches that even one vote can make a difference.  Every eligible voter has a right to vote.  He also has a duty to cast a vote.

Yesteday was Polling Day in Amritsar. Having spent past six weeks in Amritsar campaign in this heat, it will be time for me now to move to other states where elections are still being held. An integral and enjoyable part of the stay in Amritsar is obviously the food in this city. I have always regarded Amritsar as the Food Capital of India.