`Give us a chance, we`ll change the system`

He can be called Chennai`s `slumdog millionaire.` Born in the slums of Madipakkam area of the city, he experienced hunger like any other slum child does.

As a child, he saw his mother struggle to raise him and his siblings up and he helped her in selling idlis.  At school, he would stand outside the classroom for not paying fee. However, he graduated from the prestigious BITS Pilani with flying colours and did MBA in Indian Institute of Management- Ahmedabad.

He started Food King Catering Services in Ahmedabad with Rs 2,000. Food King became a phenomenally successful venture with branches in different cities which cater to many multinational companies. In no time, E Sarath Babu became a well-known businessman and his company supports over 250 families.  

Now, the MTV Youth Icon of 2008 wants to replicate his success in another field --  politics. He finds politics the best field to serve people. With lots of noble ideas, he is contesting the Lok Sabha elections from South Chennai constituency as an Independent.

With an army of enthusiastic young volunteers helping him in his novel as well as conventional methods of campaigning, 30-year-old Sharath feels he stands a good chance. In an exclusive interview with Salil Jose, he talks about his vision for the country and people.

Excerpts

What prompted you to jump into the election fray?

When I started Food King Catering Services, my aim was not just do business and make money. I wanted to help people by giving them jobs. I wanted to help them become entrepreneurs. However, as a businessman, my reach is limited.  It is not so in politics. Politics gives us lots of opportunities to serve people and we can influence a large number of people.  

You speak like an MBA. Do you think you can replicate your success in politics also?

There is no MBA speech or political speech. What is needed is to connect with people and be their voice. It`s this urge that has made me contest the elections.

Special: Lok Sabha polls 2009

I have seen a cross section of the people of the country. And I know what their problems are. I have spent time with over 3.5 lakh youngsters. I have inspired and encouraged them.

That means youngsters are your target audience

Not only youngsters.  In fact, every potential voter is my target. I am reaching out to the people and my message is that we need to bring about changes in the system.

What is your manifesto?

I have a vision that I would see a hunger-free India in 20 years. I know what hunger is since I have experienced it as a child. I want to improve the conditions in slums. I want to see a slum-free India. I want to create more jobs and entrepreneurs in the country.

Why are you contesting as an independent instead of getting the support of a party?

Parties are not meritorious. Parties are based on money. They don`t give seats to deserving candidates. But people want fresh people to serve them. They know youngsters with fresh ideas can bring about lots of changes.

Do you mean to say that youngsters who don`t have much experience can be good politicians?

Definitely. Elders haven`t given us (youngsters) a chance so far. Let them give us a chance and see what happens. We are motivated by a desire to serve people, not by positions.

You are contesting against veterans like DMK`s R S Bharati. Do you think people would accept you?

I got positive responses from the people whom I met. Most people are fed up with the  corrupt system and they are waiting for a change in the system.

Should there be a retirement age for politicians?

I am not asking people to vote for me. Rather, I urge them to exercise their voting right. Then only the system will change.

What is your method of campaigning?

Our main mode of campaign is interaction with people. We go from door-to door and meet people. Also, we make use of Internet and other media for campaigning. About 6,000 and 7,000 volunteers are passionately working for my success. And I am sure their efforts will be rewarded.

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