Patna: As the countdown to the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections begins, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has made a surprising move. At a ceremony held in Patna on Tuesday, renowned folk singer Maithili Thakur was inducted into the party by BJP state president Dilip Jaiswal. This political turn by 25-year-old Maithili has become a topic of discussion in Bihar’s political circles. But the question remains: why did the BJP include Maithili, and how effective will this move prove?
Born in Madhubani district, Maithili Thakur is a singer whose melodious voice has brought recognition to Mithila’s folk culture both nationally and internationally. Her folk songs and bhajans in Maithili, Bhojpuri, and Hindi are viral on social media, where she has a following of millions. Maithili, who achieved national and international fame at a young age, comes from a musical family. Additionally, she has been part of the Election Commission of India’s voter awareness campaign in Bihar as a “State Icon.” Her simplicity, cultural connections, and popularity among the youth make her a unique figure.
The BJP’s inclusion of Maithili Thakur into the party is being considered part of a well-thought-out strategy. The Mithila region in Bihar, where Maithili has roots, is politically significant. Her popularity, especially among youth and women, could prove to be a game-changer for the BJP. Maithili has the image of a cultural icon who not only keeps Mithila’s traditions alive but also has a strong presence on modern platforms. The BJP has sought to capitalize on this opportunity to leverage cultural pride and youthful energy in its favor.
Maithili said,
Merely joining a party does not make one a politician. I want to serve society and spread the party’s ideas to the people.”
This statement reflects her intentions, which is a positive message for the BJP. The party hopes that Maithili’s clean image and cultural appeal will attract voters in Mithila and across Bihar.
From an electoral perspective, this move by the BJP is an attempt to woo young and women voters. Maithili’s popularity could be a trump card for the party ahead of the two-phase elections in Bihar on November 6 and 11, and the counting of votes on November 14. There is talk that the BJP may field her from the Alinagar seat in Darbhanga, although Maithili has said that she will abide by the party’s decision. There was earlier speculation about her candidacy from her home constituency, Benipatti, but the decision to renominate the incumbent MLA there diminished this possibility.
Maithili’s joining the BJP is certainly a positive step for the party, but its true impact will depend on how well the BJP leverages her popularity and cultural influence into its campaign. Her non-political background and simplicity may connect her with voters, but her inexperience in the complex world of politics could pose a challenge. Nevertheless, this move reflects the BJP’s strategy of reaching out to voters through cultural icons and young faces.
Maithili Thakur’s joining the BJP is not just a political event, but an interesting example of the confluence of culture and politics. Her voice has elevated Mithila’s cultural heritage to new heights, and now she wants to use this popularity for social change. Whether this proves to be a masterstroke for the BJP, only time and ballot boxes will tell.
Also Read: Bihar Elections 2025: The Youth Factor That Could Redefine Politics in the Heartland
