Meet the millionaire Independent who defeated Anurag Thakur's father-in-law
One of the most prominent defeats in the Himachal elections was of BJP stalwart Gulab Singh Thakur, Anurag Thakur's father-in-law. His rival is a first-timer in electoral politics. Still, the native of Mandi, who had been living in Saudi Arabia for 30 years, beat Thakur by 6,635 votes. Prakash Rana, the millionaire businessman, says it was his father's dream that brought him back.
Rana reached Saudi 30 years ago, established businesses worth millions
According to Financial Express, Rana, who grew up in the nondescript Gulvan village of Mandi, left for Saudi Arabia in 1985. Since then, he set up multiple businesses; he now deals in diamonds, transport, construction, engineering equipment and more. Elder son Rahul Rana is currently looking after his businesses, Dainik Bhaskar reports.
Mansions, helipad and a private jet!
Much has been written about Rana's luxurious life. According to his poll declaration, he owns assets worth Rs. 20.8cr. His family stays in a large mansion in Himachal which even has a helipad! He apparently commutes to and from Delhi on a private jet.
Wealth hasn't blinded this man to others' needs
Rana has used his wealth to help people. Since he came home two years ago, he has helped build roads, assisted poor families and organized sports tournaments, locals said. He has provided employment to many. "I am not contesting for money, but for development," said Rana, whose father was an armyman. Now he will donate part of his earnings to the needy, he says.
