Pawan's Man Friday: Raju Raviteja

More than the agenda, manifesto, whether or not Pawan Kalyan will contest, the moot question now is who Raju Raviteja is –Pawan has been taking up his name repeatedly? What is he to Pawan Kalyan?

It is learnt that Raju Raviteja and Pawan Kalyan are pals and their friendship has been brewing over the years. Raviteja came from humble beginnings. He is a native of Jammikunta in Telangana region. Raviteja is known to be intelligent from his young age and his friend’s recount that he used to think different from others and used to look different to the lot. They say he is passionate about cultural and societal renaissance and maintains a low profile. People from Pawan Kalyan’s close quarters say that these qualities drew them closer.

Both worked together for Common man Protection Force (CPF) five years back. A few even claim that CPF was Raviteja’s idea. They even credit Raviteja for all the ground work behind the party. Sources say that it was on his insistence that Pawan Kalyan started the party. Known for his offbeat and out of the box ideas, Raviteja started projects like Uresco in 1994, which didn’t take off. Those who have known Raviteja state that he is a good influence.