In this Telugu podcast episode, we sit down with Madhavaneni Raghunandan Rao, Member of Parliament from Medak, lawyer by profession, and one of the most outspoken BJP leaders from Telangana. Known for his sharp arguments and fearless stand on issues. Raghunandan Rao opens up about politics, law, family, and the everyday struggles of a public leader.

We begin with one of the biggest contradictions of Indian democracy: 251 of the 543 newly elected MPs face criminal cases. Can clean politics truly exist when over five crore cases are still pending in courts? Rao points out the hypocrisy of focusing on issues like Sabarimala while fundamental judicial reforms are ignored. As someone with cases against him, he speaks candidly about the personal toll and why in today’s climate, survival in politics almost guarantees cases being filed.

Rao’s journey is also a story of patience and resilience. Expelled from TRS, defeated multiple times in Dubbaka, he never gave up. Using his now-famous dinosaur vs. giraffe metaphor of Darwin theory, he explains why adaptability and endurance matter more than instant wins.

On freedom of speech, he questions why anonymous abusive content is tolerated online while citizens are arrested for criticizing politicians. From the urea controversy to the silencing of YouTubers and leaders on freedom of speech, Rao takes on an interesting toll.

We also explore the unseen life of a politician: the round-the-clock demands, school admissions, medical emergencies, hospitality costs, and the stress that leaves most leaders battling BP and diabetes. He explains why cars and staff aren’t luxuries but survival tools in political life.

Turning to Telangana politics, he addresses whether a national party like BJP can compete with deeply rooted regional parties. He speaks on vote chori, duplication of votes, Aadhaar linking, and the flaws of the 51% majority system. He also highlights the disparity in funds: Telangana contributes ₹1.3 lakh crore in taxes but receives less than ₹20,000 crore back.

The discussion covers petrol prices, infrastructure growth, and the devolution of funds, as well as allegations that BJP uses agencies like ED and CBI to “wash” leaders once they join the party. He also responds to debates on Hindu vote banks, BJP’s RSS roots, and succession after Modi.

As a lawyer and politician, he reflects on balancing two seemingly opposite roles; twisting words to defend a client in court while promising truth and service in politics. He recalls unforgettable cases, his reputation as a highly paid advocate, and why advocates remain among the highest taxpayers in India.

Yet this episode isn’t only about politics. He insists parents must discuss politics at the dinner table, teaching children values, awareness, and curiosity. He opines youth to see politics as a career while also encouraging families to support alternative professions. With examples from P.V. Sindhu, Nikhath Zareen, and Malavath Poorna, he reminds us that India needs dreamers in every field, not just engineering or medicine.

From policing reforms and the role of the Election Commission to the power of social media, media bias, and even the Sansad Khel Mahotsav, Raghunandan Rao’s words reveal the complexity of leadership in modern India.

Direct, sharp, and often provocative, this conversation takes us inside the mind of a politician who is also a lawyer, father, and fighter. Finally, his mix of honesty and grassroots perspective makes this a must-listen for anyone who cares about democracy, politics, and India’s future.