Dharmendra's absence questioned as Hema's campaign picks up

But local media persons say there is a groundswell in favour of Hema who because of her Vaishnavite credentials and frequent visits to Vrindavan is not considered an outsider.

"From Gokul to Goverdhan, there is only support for Hema Malini and with the (Narendra) Modi wave factor, she should record a thumping victory," says senior journalist Ashok Bansal.

In the final countdown to the April 24 polling, all the political parties have thrown in their all to mobilise the sulking voters of this twin holy city in their favour.

Mathura with Vrindavan and Goverdhan alongwith Gokul and Mahavan on the other side of Yamuna go to polls.