A 23-year-old man who has become the UK’s youngest Indian-origin mayor says his mother inspired him to take up politics.
Tushar Kumar was chosen to take up the post in Elstree and Borehamwood, Hertfordshire.
His mother, Parveen Rani, is a Hertsmere councillor.
Kumar, who was born in the Indian city of Rohtak, 70km (43 miles) from New Delhi, said he was proud to be both British and Indian although he does get some racist comments on social media.
“The UK has given me so much, it’s given me friends, education, healthcare, and I want to give something back,” he said.
Tushar Kumar remembers some of his childhood in India [Tushar Kumar]
His family moved to the UK when he was 10, and he went to Loxford School in Ilford before studying political science at King’s College, London.
After he left secondary school, he started working with charities in part thanks to his mother Parveen Rani.
He said: “I’ve seen her do work for the community, and she’s definitely an inspiring figure on the path that I’ve been on.”
Tushar Kumar campaigned for a seat on the town council while he was still a student [Tushar Kumar]
In 2023 Kumar stood for election to Hertsmere Borough Council, alongside his mother, and also Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council.
Since he was still studying at university at the time, his family and friends campaigned on his behalf. But he was “gutted” when he failed to get a borough seat.
However, he secured a place as a Labour member on the town council after a recount and said he finds serving the people “quite fulfilling”.
“It gives me self-happiness as well,” he said, “I don’t see it as a favour that I’m doing someone.”
Tushar Kumar has been chosen to be Elstree and Borehamwood’s mayor this year [Martin Heath/BBC]
He added: “I do get some racist comments on Facebook and Instagram sometimes – everyone gets that. I think racism is on the rise and it seems to be the new normal in some ways.
“People are getting more comfortable being racist on social media – I’ve not been in politics for that long, so it does impact me.”
“I’m British”, he added, “This is my home as well.”
During his year as mayor he wants to highlight the work of local charities that are “working behind closed doors to serve the community”.
After that, he said he wants to “aim high – so nothing less than the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom!”
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