Shellackista

Shellackista is a term that has emerged in contemporary discourse, often used to describe individuals who are perceived to be excessively devoted to or enamored with the ideology and policies associated with the political party formerly known as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in India, particularly during the tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The term is generally used pejoratively by critics and opponents of the party and its leadership.

The "shellack" in shellackista is thought to refer to a colloquialism for support or endorsement, implying an unwavering and perhaps uncritical allegiance. Those labeled as shellackistas are often characterized as strong proponents of Modi's governance, his economic policies, his nationalist rhetoric, and his vision for India. Critics suggest that this devotion can sometimes manifest as an unwillingness to acknowledge or engage with criticisms of the party or its leaders, and may involve aggressive defense of their actions and decisions.

The term is not formally recognized and its usage is primarily confined to social media, political commentary, and informal discussions. It is employed to categorize a segment of the electorate or the public that displays a high degree of loyalty to the current ruling party. The perception of being a "shellackista" can vary, with supporters of the party often viewing their strong backing as justified and principled, while detractors use the term to imply a lack of critical thinking or an ideological blindness. The precise origins and evolution of the term are difficult to trace, but its appearance reflects ongoing political debates and the strong ideological divides present in Indian politics.