G R Gopinath, contesting Elections

G R Gopinath, founder of Indian low-cost carrier Deccan, is contesting in India's parliamentary elections. Better known as Capt Gopi, sold his stake to Vijay Mallya's Kingfisher Airlines in 2007 and Deccan was renamed Kingfisher Red last year. He now plans to start up a cargo airline, Deccan Cargo, in May.

Contesting as an independent in the Bangalore South Constituency, he says in his official campaign website that he has thrown his hat into the ring in frustration at "the state of affairs in the political arena". He plans to start a "citizen's committee for civic issues, fight corruption and promise good governance". This is his second foray into the political arena after unsuccessfully contesting for a state assembly seat in 1994.