WATCH: Naveen Patnaik's exercise regime to stay fit during hectic election season

Amid speculations of his ill health, a video of Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, showing him doing some free-hand exercises and yoga, is going viral on social networking sites. With less than one week left for the crucial Lok Sabha and Assembly polls, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Friday released the video which showcases what it takes to be physically fit during the hectic election season.

In the 2.9-minute-long video, captioned as NaveenTheJetEngine, Patnaik is seen donning a black T-Shirt and trousers as he performs a short jog, some stretching exercises using lightweight dumbbells, barbells and a stationary cycle. While showcasing his exercise routine at his residence - Naveen Niwas in Bhubaneswar, the chief minister says he is getting ready to fight for the people of Odisha.

"Biju Janata Dal (BJD) releases video of Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik’s exercise regime. The CM says, "Getting ready to fight for the people of Odisha, the news agency ANI reported along with the video of Patnaik.

Biju Janata Dal (BJD) releases video of Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik’s exercise regime. The CM says, "Getting ready to fight for the people of Odisha". pic.twitter.com/C15SqZRvoJ

— ANI (@ANI) April 5, 2019

Speaking to The Indian Express, a BJD leader, on the condition of anonymity, said it was necessary to release this video in lieu of rumours being circulated by an ex-BJD leader, who has now joined BJP". Those rumours claim that the 72-year-old Odisha chief minister is seriously ill and will not be able to govern effectively, as he seeks a fifth continuous term in 2019, the party leader added.

In June 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also posted a 1.49-minute video of his morning exercise routine after Indian cricketer Virat Kohli nominated him for the #FitnessChallenge. Dressed in a black jogging outfit, the 67-year-old sat on a rock for meditation after doing stretching exercises. 

"Here are moments from my morning exercises. Apart from Yoga, I walk on a track inspired by the Panchtatvas or 5 elements of nature – Prithvi, Jal, Agni, Vayu, Aakash. This is extremely refreshing and rejuvenating. I also practice breathing exercises," Modi tweeted.

Here are moments from my morning exercises. Apart from Yoga, I walk on a track inspired by the Panchtatvas or 5 elements of nature - Prithvi, Jal, Agni, Vayu, Aakash. This is extremely refreshing and rejuvenating. I also practice
breathing exercises. #HumFitTohIndiaFit pic.twitter.com/km3345GuV2

— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 13, 2018

In a first, Patnaik will be contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha elections from two constituencies - Hinjili in Ganjam district and Bijepur in west Odisha's Bargarh district.

The simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in Odisha is scheduled to be held in three phases - on April 11, 18, 23 and 29. The counting of votes will be taken up on May 23.