We want to move beyond elections, face of India's 'cockroach' movement tells BBC

Figure caption, The BBC's Yogita Limaye speaks to Abhijeet Dipke as he visits a school in rural India

International correspondent Published 3 minutes ago In just under three months, 30-year-old Abhijeet Dipke - the founder and face of India's Gen Z "cockroach" protests - has acquired the kind of celebrity status normally reserved for a breakout actor or cricketer.

In politics or activism, unless you come from an influential family, such recognition can take years - if it comes at all.

"It's been a rollercoaster ride. Two-three months ago, nobody knew me. I was just in my room in Boston watching documentaries or attending lectures," said Dipke, who recently completed a master's in public relations at Boston University.

"Now I'm here surrounded by hundreds of people, by cameras. It's a bit overwhelming."