Nara Lokesh, the young face of the TDP, political heir of N Chandrababu Naidu and a minister in the Andhra Pradesh cabinet, is drawing attention for his lifestyle choices.
Chandrababu Naidu built his public image on visible simplicity, travelling in a modest Safari convoy and functioning from a two bedroom residence and camp office in Amaravathi. That austere way of living became a political message and set a model for leaders in public life.
Lokesh, however, seems to be moving away from that approach. His clarification that he attended a Colombo cricket match with his own money is legally valid, yet public perception works differently.
Voters usually expect their representatives to reflect simplicity and visible displays of wealth often create silent discomfort that later influences electoral behaviour.
The impact is seen among other leaders as well. With Lokesh using private jets and premium facilities, several ministers and MLAs are now seen in luxury cars such as Volvo, Benz, Lexus and Range Rover, unlike the earlier Innova and Fortuner culture.
Personal choices may not be wrong, but ignoring public psychology can prove politically costly.
It should be recalled how the recent Gen-Z revolt in Nepal erupted in response to the blatant and vulgar display of wealth by politicians and their children.