Watch: Shivraj Chouhan Blesses Mohan Yadav, Who Replaced Him

The BJP, which won handsomely in the big heartland state, sprang a surprise on Monday afternoon when it decided to go with a relatively unknown face in Mohan Yadav, a three-time MLA and a minister in the previous Shivraj Chouhan government.

A bouquet was gifted, a hand went over the recipient's head, smiles were exchanged, completing an unofficial transfer of power from one chief minister (Shivraj Singh Chouhan) to the incoming Mohan Yadav, the new chief minister of Madhya Pradesh. #WATCH | BJP leaders including Shivraj Singh Chouhan, congratulate party leader Mohan Yadav after he was named as the new Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh pic.twitter.com/xzC6aXceBZ

"I am a small worker of the party. I thank all of you, the state leadership and the central leadership. With your love and support, I will try to fulfil my responsibilities," said the chief minister-designate Mohan Yadav.

Mr Chouhan promptly tweeted his best wishes to his successor.