Laxmi Ratan Shukla is a name synonymous with Indian cricket and, more recently, politics. Born in Calcutta, he carved a niche for himself as a prominent allrounder in domestic cricket. Shukla was a righthanded batsman and a rightarm mediumpace bowler, making him a valuable asset to any team he represented. He was known for his aggressive batting style and ability to score quick runs, often changing the momentum of a match. His bowling, while not express pace, was accurate and effective in breaking partnerships.

Shukla's career spanned over a decade, primarily representing Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, the premier domestic cricket competition in India. He captained the Bengal team for several years, leading them with distinction and earning the respect of his teammates and opponents alike. He was a consistent performer in domestic cricket, amassing a significant number of runs and wickets. While he didn't achieve widespread success at the international level, he did represent India in a few One Day International (ODI) matches.

Following his retirement from cricket, Shukla transitioned into politics, joining the Trinamool Congress (TMC). He successfully contested and won the West Bengal Legislative Assembly election, becoming a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA). He also served as a minister in the West Bengal government, holding portfolios related to sports and youth affairs. This transition marked a new chapter in his life, where he aimed to contribute to the development of the state through public service. However, he later resigned from his ministerial post and the TMC, indicating a potential shift in his political career.