In Bihar's Alinagar constituency, 25-year-old folk singer Maithili Thakur has become the BJP's youngest candidate, representing the party's bid to translate Mithila's cultural pride into votes. The seat, located in Darbhanga district, has traditionally been RJD stronghold territory. Veteran leader Abdul Bari Siddiqui held it for seven terms before his exit in 2015, and in 2020, it narrowly went to VIP's Mishri Lal Yadav by just over 3,000 votes. The constituency's social mix is complex: Brahmins and Muslims each account for roughly 20 percent, followed by Yadavs, EBCs, and Dalits. The BJP hopes Thakur, hailed as the daughter of Mithila, can consolidate Brahmin votes, attract non-Yadav OBCs, and win over Dalit and EBC voters through welfare schemes. However, she faces strong challenges from RJD's Binod Mishra and Jan Suraj's Biplaw Kumar Chowdhary. Despite her regional roots and cultural appeal, doubts linger about her political inexperience and frequent travel. Many voters admit admiration for her talent but remain tied to traditional caste loyalties, making the outcome uncertain.
Cultural Icon Meets Ground Realities of Caste Politics
When Thakur's cavalcade arrived at Dath Chowk's Bramhasthan after hours of rain, crowds rushed for selfies, greeting her as a regional pride returning home. Yet BJP leaders stayed close, coaching her through campaign rituals. Despite growing up locally for nine years, many still view her as an outsider who left to pursue music. In Shyampur, voters called her a "videshi," preferring someone accessible. At Ghanshyampur, a 65-year-old BJP supporter acknowledged she "doesn't understand politics" but would vote for her because Prime Minister Modi endorsed her. Local BJP leader Sanjay Singh, who wanted the ticket himself, now bridges her campaign to grassroots networks, underscoring her reliance on established party machinery.
Welfare Promises Clash With Deep-Rooted Loyalties
BJP strategists bank on the Rs 10,000 welfare transfer to women swinging votes their way. However, caste calculations remain powerful. Ram Rai Devi, a Yadav woman receiving the benefit, stated bluntly her vote follows caste lines. A 24-year-old tutor criticized both Modi and Nitish Kumar, praising RJD's Tejashwi Yadav for focusing on jobs despite his limited formal education. Even admirers of Thakur's musical talent questioned her political commitment, citing constant travel for performances. A 60-year-old pan seller predicted votes would be decided the night before polling, with Yadavs and Muslims backing RJD's lantern symbol while Brahmins lean BJP. The contest hinges on swing voters among EBCs and non-Yadav OBCs.
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