MAMATA BANERJEE

For breaching the Red Citadel and scripting the Left's worst performance in West Bengal.

NAVEEN PATNAIK

For politically bold, risk-taking decision making and not losing an election in over a decade.

P CHIDAMBARAM

For providing the most decisive and visible turnaround performance in the UPA's second innings in the critical Home Ministry.

PRANAB MUKHERJEE

For skilful handling of one of Indian economy's worst recessionary and turbulent phases.

RAHUL GANDHI (Winner)

For energising the Congress and being the key strategist behind the party's revival in Uttar Pradesh.

RAMAN SINGH

For leading BJP to an impressive win in Chhattisgarh and subsequent tough handling of the Naxalite problem.