In a development that has drawn significant political and public attention in Bihar, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav on Wednesday reunited with his estranged son, Janshakti Janata Dal chief Tej Pratap Yadav, during a traditional “Dahi Chuda” ceremony held at his residence in Patna. The reunion, taking place on the occasion of Makar Sankranti, has sparked fresh speculation about shifting family ties and potential political realignments in the state.

The event was attended by several prominent political figures cutting across party lines, giving it the appearance of more than just a private family gathering. Among those present were Bihar Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, Rashtriya Lok Janshakti Party (RLJP) chief Pashupati Kumar Paras, and senior Bihar ministers including Vijay Chaudhary and Sanjay Jha, along with other leaders and guests.

For months, relations between Lalu Prasad Yadav and Tej Pratap Yadav had appeared strained, following political and personal differences that culminated in Tej Pratap charting an independent political path. Wednesday’s meeting, therefore, was widely seen as a symbolic thaw in their relationship.

Tej Pratap Speaks of Blessings and Family Bonds

Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Tej Pratap Yadav struck an emotional and celebratory note, emphasising the cultural and familial significance of the occasion. He said a grand “Dahi Chuda” feast was organised and that he received the blessings of his father.

“If Teju Bhaiya’s feast won’t be a super duper hit, then whose will be?” he said, in a characteristically animated remark. “A grand feast of dahi-chuda was organised. Our parents are God to us, so we will keep receiving their blessings. Everyone will come.”

His comments suggested an effort to project warmth, reconciliation, and inclusiveness, at least on a personal level. While neither father nor son directly addressed past differences, their public appearance together was itself seen as a powerful signal.

Political Signals and Makar Sankranti Symbolism

The timing of the reunion, coinciding with Makar Sankranti, added symbolic weight to the event. Makar Sankranti marks a transition in the Hindu calendar and is often associated with new beginnings. Several leaders present at the ceremony alluded to this symbolism in their remarks.

RLJP chief Pashupati Kumar Paras said the occasion traditionally marks the formation of new equations, both in families and in politics. “January 14th is here. All the planets that were there have ended. From today, a new equation will be formed. Those who were scattered in the family will come together. A new turn will come in Bihar’s politics,” Paras told ANI.

While no formal political announcements were made, such statements have fuelled speculation that the reunion could have implications beyond the Yadav family, possibly influencing alliances and strategies ahead of future elections in Bihar.

Dahi Chuda: Tradition and Cultural Meaning

The ceremony revolved around Dahi Chuda, also known as Doi Chire, a traditional dish deeply rooted in Bihar’s culture. Widely consumed across Bihar and eastern India, Dahi Chuda is a simple, no-cook meal made by mixing flattened rice (chura or poha) with fresh yoghurt (dahi), sweetened with jaggery or sugar. It is often topped with bananas, nuts, or other seasonal fruits.

The dish holds special significance during Makar Sankranti, when it is traditionally offered to the Sun God as a symbol of gratitude, prosperity, and good fortune. Light, easily digestible, and considered sattvic, Dahi Chuda is valued for its nutritional benefits, including protein and energy, making it a staple festive food across socio-economic groups.

While the sweet version is the most popular, savoury variations—prepared with onions, mild spices, or a drizzle of mustard oil—are also enjoyed in many households.

What Lies Ahead

Although the reunion was framed as a cultural and family occasion, its political undertones were hard to miss. Lalu Prasad Yadav remains one of Bihar’s most influential political figures, and Tej Pratap Yadav, despite recent setbacks and controversies, continues to command attention due to his lineage and political visibility.

Whether this reunion marks a lasting reconciliation or is limited to a symbolic gesture tied to the festival remains to be seen. For now, the images and statements from the Dahi Chuda ceremony have sent a clear message of rapprochement—one that has already set Bihar’s political circles abuzz with anticipation about what “new equations” might emerge in the days ahead.