Mumbai Mayor Race: Tejaswi, Ritu, Rajshree Lead BJP Contenders; Will BJP Surprise Again?

• BJP emerged as the single largest party in the 227-seat BMC elections, winning 89 seats, making a coalition government certain.
• The Mumbai Mayor's post is reserved for a woman from the general category, leading to new faces in the race and sidelining many male stalwarts.
• Tejaswi Ghosalkar, 38, who joined BJP from Shiv Sena (UBT) and won from Dahisar by a large margin, is considered a strong contender.
• Ritu Tawade, 53, a two-time corporator from Ghatkopar and from the Maratha community, is seen as an organization favorite with administrative acumen.
• Rajshree Shirwadkar and Sheetal Gambhir are also in the race, recognized for their experience, grassroots work, and trustworthiness within the party.

Why It Matters: The BJP is poised to select Mumbai's next woman Mayor, with Tejaswi Ghosalkar and Ritu Tawade as frontrunners.