RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav (right) addresses the media after giving the party’s membership slip to singer and actor Khesari Lal Yadav and his wife Chanda, in Patna on October 16, 2025.
The Bihar Assembly elections are getting a dazzling upgrade, as Bhojpuri film stars and other prominent artists jump into the political arena, transforming the contest into a truly star-studded event. The opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has proudly announced popular actor Khesari Lal Yadav as its candidate from Chhapra in Saran district. Not to be outdone, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has put forward renowned folk singer Maithili Thakur to contest from Alinagar in Darbhanga district.
Adding to the electoral glitter, well-known Bhojpuri film personalities such as Pawan Singh, Manoj Tiwari, Ravi Kishan, and Dinesh Lal Yadav ‘Nirahua’ are also playing significant roles, featuring prominently in the BJP’s exclusive list of 40 star campaigners.
Khesari Lal Yadav, a native of Saran district, officially joined the RJD alongside his wife, Chanda, on Thursday evening. The actor revealed to reporters that his initial intention was to secure a ticket for his wife. However, after discovering her name was not on the voters’ list, he made the personal decision to enter the electoral race. Mr. Yadav expressed his deep respect and admiration for RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav.
“This nomination is wholeheartedly dedicated to the progress and development of Chhapra,” Mr. Yadav declared after submitting his nomination papers on Friday. He emphasized his vision, stating, “Just as I can provide a quality education for my children, the residents of this constituency deserve the same opportunities. Furthermore, access to excellent health facilities must be a priority for everyone.”
Folk singer Maithili Thakur, who had joined the BJP earlier this week, was initially rumored to be contesting from Benipatti in Madhubani district. However, she was ultimately nominated as the candidate for Alinagar. Ms. Thakur officially filed her nomination papers on Friday, following a traditional puja ceremony at a local temple.
Speaking to a public gathering, Ms. Thakur affirmed her commitment, stating, “I will diligently work to ensure the comprehensive development of my constituency, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inspiring vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India). With the unwavering support and blessings of the people, I am determined to transform Alinagar into a model Assembly constituency, a beacon of progress that will be recognized and celebrated on a global scale.”
Adding to the list of celebrity political engagements, Bhojpuri film star Akshara Singh had previously met senior BJP leader and Union Minister Giriraj Singh, sparking whispers that she might also enter the election fray. She also held discussions with Jan Suraaj Party leader Prashant Kishor, further fueling speculation.
Following her meeting with the Union Minister, Ms. Singh simply stated, “I had come to seek his blessings.”
Pawan Singh, despite being a prominent name among the BJP’s star campaigners, had previously contested the 2024 Lok Sabha election as an Independent candidate from Karakat, where he secured the runner-up position. Although he recently joined the BJP, and there was much speculation that he would be nominated from Ara in Bhojpur district, he ultimately declared that he would not be participating in the current Assembly elections.