NEW DELHI: If one moment conveyed NDA's triumphant mood at the swearing-in ceremony in Patna after its massive poll win, it was the sight of PM Narendra Modi waving a 'gamcha' to the crowd of happy supporters, many of whom cheerfully responded by swinging their own 'gamchas'. A utilitarian accoutrement in everyday life, especially for the working class, the humble 'gamcha' had its proud moment under the sun courtesy Modi. He often wore it during his campaign, and waved it at jubilant BJP supporters at the party's headquarters on Nov 14 when he delivered his victory speech after NDA's massive win of 202 seats in the 243-member assembly. The gamcha is now part of mainstream Bihari dressing culture and the state's distinct identity, a change many will welcome. Parag Goswami, a professor

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