New Delhi: The veteran TV actor, Hindi serial Ramayan fame Arun Govil, who played the lead role of “Ram” joined BJP just days before Assembly elections in four states and a union territory. The BJP said that Arun Govil will not contest in the elections but he will campaign for the party.

Speaking to the media persons Arun Govil at his first press conference said there was nothing wrong in saying “Jai Shri Ram”, the phrase heard often at BJP rallies and marches in Bengal, where it is hoping to form its maiden government. He also said he was joined in BJP, because of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamatha Benarjee’s irritation with the word “Jai Shri Ram”.

“Jai Shree Ram” is not a slogan, not even a political slogan, he said. It is a way of life for us. It represents our culture and ethos, he added. Apart from Ramayan, Govil, 63, has played leads in several Hindi, Bhojpuri, Odia and Telugu films. He has also played supporting characters. He is, however, mostly known for his roles in mythological movies.