The Congress has an alliance with the Nationalist Congress Party and the Republican Party of India in Maharashtra. Petroleum Minister Ram Naik, Govinda's main rival, has represented the Mumbai North constituency five times.

Some local Congress leaders have objected to Govinda seeking the help of Independent MLA Hitendra Thakur, who has a terrifying reputation in the Vasai and Virar segments of the constituency.

But former state Congress minister Tarabai Vartak told rediff.com: "All of us, including Hitendra Thakur, are working together for Govinda's win. There isn't any dispute."

Also see: The Lure of the Deccan