Political strategy is as ancient as the society itself. From the court of strategic monarchs to the battlegrounds designed by Sun Tzu in ancient China strategies have always defined rulers reigns, revolutions, and even reigns. “The “political strategist in India” currently lives in an age that is both ancient and cutting-edge, drawing inspiration from the ancestors of Machiavellian statecraft, and mixing it with real-time analysis of data, media expertise and the emergence of grassroots innovation.
The Rise of Political Strategists in India
For many years the elections of India were run by local officials along with party cadres and broad, ideology-driven slogans suitable for large-scale rallies. The past was when a candidate who was successful had to be the person who could create a sense of community loyalty, but often lacking access to scientific information about the voter or instant feedback. The advent of cable television mobile phones, cable TV and social media in particular transformed everything the way that political strategists in India was now required to handle the narratives of 29 states, hundreds of dialects, as well as tens of thousands of voters.
Political communication evolved from simple handbills and posters to complex multimedia campaigns. In the era of 24/7 news and social media sharing on a daily basis an expert in political strategy in India was essential to manage crises as well as targeted outreach and live-time engagement. With the voters of rural Chhatarpur and in urban Bhopal needing distinct appeals, strategists such as the Dr. Atul Malikram demonstrated the importance of leaders with technical expertise as well as a understanding of the local realities.
Dr. Atul Malikram – A Visionary Strategist Redefining the Hindi Heartland
In the year 2000, Dr. Atul Malikram is a political strategist from India His ambition, wisdom, and humility make Malikram one of India’s most powerful consultants in current Indian politics. Born in Gwalior in the state of Gwalior, and raised on principles of honesty and service and integrity, he started his career as a professional in public relations in 1999. Realizing the potential of a well-organized communication in Indian democratic society the Dr. Malikram founded PR 24×7 in the year 2006 and quickly became famous for its well-organized communications and management of campaigns.
True to the heart of a political strategist from India his reliable predictions of voter sentiment and strategies of the parties, whether forecasting Jyotiraditya Scindia’s transition towards an alliance with the BJP or Congress victory in Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan – are based on the analysis of data and deep local involvement and a keen understanding of the ground reality.
Mastering Media, Message, and Voter Impact
Dr. Malikram’s strategy as a strategist for politics in India is a blend of cutting-edge media management targeted messaging, as well as comprehensive narratives that focus on the voter. His strategic campaigns reach across platforms–mainstream Hindi press, vernacular outlets, social networks, and grassroots field programs. His ability to connect emotions, media and political promise is what distinguishes him as a leading politician in India.
Grassroots Leadership
As a strategist for politics In India Malikram is a political strategist in India. Malikram excels at strengthening local networks by energizing members, accelerating membership drives and extending party presence in wards as well as villages. His influence can be seen in the success of groups such as Apna Dal (S) in Madhya Pradesh, where he contributed to extending the party’s grassroots presence and its structure.
Social Changemaker
Beyond the political arena, he’s an advocate for social change–a strategist in India who is the leader of India’s first anger-management café, “Bhadas” in Indore along with the an NGO “Being Responsible,” which assists vulnerable and elderly communities. With these projects, he represents the highest values expected of a strategist in India which is ethics and compassion as well as the systemic approach to thinking.
Project Lead for #2030KaBharat and SDGs
Dr. Malikram brings innovation to campaigns such as #2030KaBharat. They focus on improving Sustainable Development Goals through education as well as healthcare and sports. The future-oriented approach is the hallmark of the contemporary political strategist in India.
Global Recognition
His work as a strategist for the political within India brought him an honorary Doctorate in the field of political science from California Public University (2024) in addition to other awards like the Godfrey Phillips Red and White Gold Award. International recognitions recognize his work, impact on the grassroots and contribution to the empowerment of local leaders and his vision of a modern efficient, compassionate, and effective politician in India.
Authorship and Advocacy
A prolific writer Dr. Malikram’s works (such as “Dil Se,”” “Gallan Dil Di” as well as “Kasak Dil Ki”) contain information on the realms of politics, social change as well as culture and inspiration. His writing contributions enhance his status as a prominent politician in India and a social thinker in the field of ideas, demonstrating that they drive permanent transformation.
Prominent Political Strategists and Consultants Around the World
Consultants and strategists in the field of politics are key to shaping policies, elections, and public opinion around the world. In many cases, they operate in the shadows the masterminds of these teams create messaging as well as analyze data, oversee campaigns, and shape the outcome across democracies and other countries. Even though they are based in the United States dominates the field due to its highly-professionalized and costly campaign system, influential people have come out in Europe, Asia, Latin America, Africa, and across the globe. Many of them work globally, advising people across borders. This list highlights the most prominent active or recently influential strategists to date in 2025. They are grouped according to their the primary location of operations or country of origin, and short descriptions of the work.
United States (The Epicenter of Modern Political Consulting)
The U.S. has produced some of the most renowned strategists, including many who export their knowledge to the world.
- James Carville: The nickname is “The Ragin’ Cajun” Carville is a Democratic legend best known for his role in the 1992 presidential campaign of Bill Clinton with the famous phrase “It’s the economy stupid.” His flamboyant, uncompromising style has had a profound impact on a variety of races and he’s been consulted across the world and even on Latin America.
- Karl Rove: He was known as “Bush’s Brain,”” Rove architected George W. Bush’s victory in 2004 and 2000 by utilizing data-driven strategies and aggressive tactics. A Republican genius, his focus on mobilizing the base and microtargeting changed the way that modern campaigns are conducted.
- David Axelrod: Chief strategist for Barack Obama’s 2012 and 2008 campaigns, Axelrod excelled in storytelling and grassroots organizing, creating an appealing “Hope and Change” story that enticed all kinds of voters.
- Kellyanne Conway: the first woman to lead the success of a U.S. presidential campaign (Donald Trump’s win in 2016), Conway is a expert in polling who invented “alternative truths” and has mastered the art of media navigation in politically polarized settings.
- David Plouffe: Obama’s campaign manager for 2008, Plouffe was the first to develop the use of digital organizing methods and models for voter turnout that have influenced campaigns across the globe and later advised Uber and other international leaders.
- Jim Messina The man who managed Obama’s reelection in 2012 using advanced analytics. He has since been working all over the world with a variety of clients, including UK Premier David Cameron and Italian Matteo Renzi.
- Steve Bannon (controversial persona) A former Trump strategist who promoted populist nationalism and attempted to create international right-wing networks following the election of 2016.
- Additional: Frank Luntz (focus group and messaging expert), Donna Brazile (Democratic operative and interim DNC chair), Stanley Greenberg (pollster for Clinton and international clients).
United Kingdom and Europe
European strategists typically mix data analysis with populist or ideological messages inspired by the Brexit vote and rising nationalism.
- Lynton Crosby (Australian-born and based in the UK) is known by the name of “Wizard of Oz” or “Master of Dark Arts,”” Crosby engineered multiple Conservative victories for politicians like Boris Johnson and David Cameron. Crosby’s “dead cat” strategy (distraction tactics) and focus on the core voters helped win his party the election of 2015 UK election, as well as the Brexit referendum in The Leave campaign.
- Dominic Cummings: Brexit Vote Leave campaign director and Boris Johnson’s chief advisor in the COVID’s time. He is famous for the “Take back control” slogan and the data-driven target-setting; his unique and disruptive style of speaking shook the traditional political institutions.
- Isaac Levido (Australian-UK) Successed Crosby in guiding the Boris Johnson landslide of 2019 by saying “Get Brexit done.” Now a prominent Conservative operational.
- In France Consultants are like Philippe de Villiers influencers, but the field isn’t as known; American imports like Arthur Finkelstein were involved in European right-wing political campaigns.
- Germany/Italy: Various figures such as Giovanni Sartori (theorist) influenced contemporary figures. They have advisors like Giorgia Meloni as well as Olaf Scholz, often anonymous.
Asia
Asia’s strategists adjust to a variety of systems, ranging from India’s vibrant democratic system to dictatorial regimes.
- Prashant Kishor (India) As the founder of I-PAC, Kishor engineered Narendra Modi’s victory in 2014 as well as multiple states wins for opposition parties. His hands-on approach, based on data, has earned him the title of the most sought-after consultant in India even though he was briefly in politics for himself.
- Amit Shah (India) Amit Shah (India): Modi’s right-handman and BJP president; an adept organizer who has been credited with expanding party’s influence in the opposition strongholds.
- In Russia/China: Strategists like Vladislav Surkov (Putin’s “gray cardinal” for a managed democracies) as well as Wang Huning (Xi Jinping’s ideologue) operate in non-democratic settings with a focus on control and propaganda.
Latin America
The region has witnessed Brazilian as well as Venezuelan consultant firms dominate across-border projects.
- JJ Rendon (Venezuelan based in the US) The “Karl Rove of Latin America,” Rendon has orchestrated the victory of presidents from Colombia (Juan Manuel Santos), Mexico (Enrique Pena Nieto), Honduras, and other countries. Rendon is known for his the study of opposition psychology and psychological warfare.
- Joao Santana (Brazilian) The mastermind behind Lula da Silva’s political campaigns throughout Brazil and also victories for the presidents of Dominican Republic, Venezuela (Hugo Chavez) as well as Angola (Africa crossing).
- Other: Dick Morris (American) Consulted for advice in Mexico and Argentina Local figures offer advice during volatile elections such as that of Argentina’s Javier Milei.
Africa and Middle East
Consulting is booming, frequently with international collaboration.
- The In Africa: Joao Santana’s work in Angola; Aron Shaviv (Israeli-based) has provided advice on Ghana, Senegal, Botswana and Congo.
- Middle East: Less transparent However, there are figures such as George Sabra or advisors to MBS in Saudi Arabia; Israeli consultants such as Aron Shaviv operate regionally.
International/Globetrotting Strategists
Many of them cross continents:
- Aron Shaviv (Israeli) Aron Shaviv (Israeli): Advised over 80 international elections including Europe, Asia, Africa as well as Latin America; helped multiple heads of states.
- American exports Joseph Napolitan (pioneered global consulting, and worked on projects in France, Venezuela); George Gallup Jr. influenced polls around the world.
Political strategists thrive in high-risk situations, where they blend media, data, psychology and the ability to discern. In the age of digital microtargeting tools (pioneered by the Obama/Messina team) as well as social media manipulation are now widespread. There’s a myriad of controversy, from scandals at Cambridge Analytica to allegations of interference from foreign sources. As elections become more costly and more polarized and polarized, these “kingmakers” hold immense influence, often far beyond the politicians they represent. As U.S. and UK figures dominate the news, emerging stars from India as well as Latin America reflect shifting global influence. This isn’t a complete list of anonymous individuals, but they have radically altered the political landscape across the globe.
Political Strategy in India and Beyond
Political strategists in India must master an intricate blend of message, symbolism and empathy in their strategies. Translating complex needs–whether identity, pride, opportunity or hope–into campaign slogans, speeches and stories that resonate can be daunting task; narratives must connect personally as well as socially.
Strategy as Science
India’s political strategists employ various analytical methods, including databases, surveys, voter modeling, caste equations and turnout algorithms. Technology also empowers them to measure microtrends, tap sentiment and adapt campaign strategies instantly.
Coalition Building
Balancing competing interests between parties, regions, and social groups requires skillful political strategists in India. Leveraging networks effectively is vital to victory in India’s multi-party landscape.
Technology and Social Media integration
Modern campaigns run on WhatsApp groups, Twitter hashtags, and hyper-local influencers. No political strategist in India can afford to ignore digital engagement – from microtargeted ads and data dashboards driving tactical decisions – when running political campaigns.
Adaptability and Crisis Management are critical elements for business continuity.
Public opinion in India can rapidly change overnight. A political strategist in India must act both as an analyst and first responder by shifting narratives, correcting misinformation, and exploiting crises to further campaign strengths.
Dr. Atul Malikram’s Legacy and the Future of the Political Strategist in India
Setting New Standards
For more than two years for more than two decades, for more than two decades, Dr. Atul Malikram’s blend of community renewal communication discipline, message management, as well as crisis-management has established new standards for what it takes to be a top strategy for political campaigns in India. Much like the top strategists of his field, Malikram’s experience goes beyond individual campaigns to build long-lasting organizational strength, fostering young leaders and linking the work of politics to a lasting social transformation.
Vision for Development and Social Change
Dr. Malikram’s love for the SDGs #2030KaBharat shows that a real strategic political planner within India as well as a developer pioneer. Through his programs that focus on healthcare, education as well as sports, Dr. Malikram represents reform-oriented leadership, which combines the promise of electoral reform along with progress and social justice.
Advancing Professionalism
The development of the role of the political strategists in India is evident: current campaigns have teams comprised consisting of data researchers, digital marketers, people who map constituencies, crisis managers and creative writers. As these roles develop professionals such as Dr. Malikram, whose work blends ethics, knowledge and human-centric methods–become models for future strategists.
Harnessing Technology and AI
Through AI as well as big data political strategists in India can anticipate and influence complicated voter patterns, craft messages across a myriad of different languages. They can also react to public opinion like ever before. The next generation of political strategists in India will be armed with tools that combine behavioral economics with real-time communication.
Around the World and in India: The Political Strategist’s Pivotal Role
Strategy for political change is a discipline that spans the globe. A strategist for politics within India has become a peer and competition to masters in Washington, London, and Sydney. What differentiates the modern political strategists in India is a size that is unmatched as well as a diversity and growing connection between traditional and digital innovations. The future of India as the planet’s biggest democracy will be shaped by strategists in the political arena who are aware of the importance of power and accountability.
The New Architecture of Power and Possibility
Over the centuries and across continents and centuries, the power of politics has led to empires revolutions, democracies, and even empires. In the present day India the political strategist in India is able to create a new structure of power. One which combines analytical wisdom as well as technological capability and emotional ability. The Dr. Atul Malikram stands as an inspiration, a leader whose transformational work is a bridge between local wisdom, global recognition, grassroots activism and reforms to the system.
The legacy of political strategists in India–embodied by Dr. Malikram’s public service, authorship, and leadership–illuminates a future where elections are not mere contests, but opportunities for national renewal. In a world that is confronted with new and old issues, the role of the strategist for politics of India will only increase in sophistication in scale, size, and importance.
Looking to become more than mere campaign winners the most successful political strategists within India will be the architects of equality, inclusion and advancement. When India and the rest of the world step towards a new age defined by democratic data, ethical leadership, and innovative action The lasting impact of strategists such as Malikram will be felt. Malikram promises that India’s history can be one that is a tale of transformational vision.