That YSR completed five years in power with out a whimper of dissidence and led the party single-handedly back to power speak volumes about the hold he now enjoys over the party in the state and the backing from the high command. It can safely be said that never in the past had any state satrap of Congress enjoyed such wholehearted support from bigwigs in Delhi and massive popularity at the state level.

"Never in the past had the state got such good governance, a judicious mix of the development and welfare programs to reach out to each and every family. That is why people have extended their support. The credit goes to YSR. He is the real hero," said state's senior most Congress leader and finance minister K Roshaiah, praising the leadership of Dr Reddy.

By personally calling YSR to congratulate him and pat his back, the Congress president Sonia Gandhi has also made it clear that YSR was the man of the moment as far as the party leadership was concerned. By not only retaining the power at the state but also sending the largest contingent of 33 Congress MPs from Andhra Pradesh, YSR has further fortified his position.

This was obvious from reports that the high command has given YSR a free hand to pick and chose whoever he wants in the state and central cabinet from the state.