Stage set for Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's roadshow

According to senior Congress leader Mohan Prakash, the roadshow will be taken out from Pt Madan Mohan Malviya statue and culminate in Kashi Vishwanath.

Vadra will also offer puja at the Kashi Vishwanath temple.

This is her first visit to the temple city since Congress nominated Ajay Rai against the Prime Minister.

Mr Rai had contested against the Prime Minister in 2014 as well and had finished third - after Modi and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal.

For sometime, there was speculation that Priyanka Gandhi could contest from Varanasi. But as she opted out from the race, the Congress camp and especially minority women were demoralised.

However, Mr Rai said that the party is battle ready for the contest against Mr Modi. "Every Congress men and women will be giving their best for the battle royal on May 19".

Senior Congress leader Mohan Prakash sought to turn the table against Mr Modi and said by constant use of "abusive" language, the Prime Minister has lost the right to represent the people of Varanasi as citizens over centuries are known here for cultured behaviour.

The contest in Varanasi is heading for a triangular fight. SP-BSP-RLD alliance has fielded Shalini Yadav of Samajwadi for the constituency.

BJP leader Ashok Pandey has, meanwhile, said the battle in Varanasi is one-sided.

He has also mocked that a fierce battle is on cards between Congress and Samajwadi for the runners up prize.