"Poll dance" fever: CEO Ratan Kelkar and Collector Anukumari break the internet with rap song for voter awareness

A dance video designed to encourage youth voter turnout has gone viral on social media. The campaign features a group led by Chief Electoral Officer Ratan U. Kelkar and Thiruvananthapuram District Collector Anukumari, both of whom performed to a rap song.

The video was officially released through the Chief Electoral Officer's social media platforms. The accompanying audio track had previously been unveiled by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in Kochi. Since its release, the video has received widespread praise on Facebook and YouTube. Other key figures appearing in the campaign include Thiruvananthapuram Assistant Collector Dr. Sivasakthivel and Election Department Under Secretary Sarin SS.

The video, which runs for one minute and 33 seconds, opens with the lyrics, "Ithu Ninte Vote... Nammade Nadinu Vename Vote..." and was filmed against the scenic backdrop of Kovalam Beach.

The dance troupe also features BLO Sathyabhama, Anagha Sajikumar, Manasa R B, Devika Anil, Deepa L, Aneesh M S, Abhijith, and Ashwin. The choreography and direction were handled by a dedicated group of employees from the Thiruvananthapuram District Collector's Office on behalf of the Election Commission.

To inspire young voters and boost participation, a vibrant Gen Z-themed song set the stage as Chief Electoral Officer Dr. Rathan U. Kelkar IAS and Thiruvananthapuram District Collector Anu Kumari IAS joined in with energetic steps. Joining them were Assistant Collector Dr.… pic.twitter.com/kIoyunWKNT

— Chief Electoral Officer Kerala (@Ceokerala) April 5, 2026

The Election Commission is implementing several creative campaigns to increase voter participation. In a new incentive scheme, the first 15 people at every polling station who cast their vote and present their inked finger at any Cafe Coffee Day outlet on April 9 will receive a 25% discount.