Mahajan, who, too, was in the ABVP was known more for his organisational abilities rather than any charisma. But the two paired up in college, and, later in politics, with Mahajan far outstripping Munde in real politik.
Mahajan was a Brahmin and Munde belonged to the backward but numerous Vanjara caste in Maharashtra. Mahajan soon realised the popular strength of a majority caste affiliation, and while he became adept at politicking in the corridors of power, he lost no chance in promoting Munde at all levels of the BJP.
Mahajan persuaded Munde to get into electoral politics, first at the Zila Parishad level and later at the assembly level. Munde