Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) candidate and popular Bhojpuri singer Khesari Lal Yadav on Friday openly criticised Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary for his controversial “nachaniya” (dancer) comment, which appeared to target Yadav in the run-up to the state assembly elections. Speaking to ANI, Yadav urged political leaders to be mindful of their words and stressed the importance of setting a respectful example for younger generations.

Referring to Chaudhary as his “elder brother,” Yadav downplayed the insult while emphasising that public leaders should avoid derogatory remarks for electoral gains. “For someone who hasn’t worked hard, no words hold any meaning, but for someone who works hard, every word has meaning,” Yadav said. He added, “If someone calls me ‘nachaniya,’ it’s okay; he’s an elder brother. That particular person has never been my enemy. But insulting someone just to win an election isn’t right, and one should always control their words, because people in society respect you and listen to what you say. Efforts should be made to ensure that future generations don’t use such words.”

Yadav also highlighted his approach to personal and political relationships, contrasting it with what he described as the self-interest of some BJP leaders. He specifically mentioned his long-standing rapport with BJP MP Manoj Tiwari, noting that he has campaigned for both Tiwari and the BJP in the past. “Party matters to them, but relationships matter to me,” he said. “The elections are today, and they’ll come again in five years, but I’m not so stingy with relationships. Today, I want to pursue something outside the industry, so perhaps that’s why I’ve become their enemy.”

Aside from addressing the controversy, Yadav outlined his agenda if elected as the Chapra MLA. He committed to tackling issues such as the low standard of education and inadequate healthcare facilities in the constituency. “The trust that the people of Chapra have placed in me, I will try to do whatever I can with my skills and strength. Our effort will be to raise the standard of education, improve the hospital system, and take Chapra in a better direction,” he said.

The remarks come as Bihar prepares for the 243-seat assembly elections, which are scheduled to be held in two phases on November 6 and November 11. Additionally, bye-elections for eight seats across seven states and Union Territories are also set for November 11. The results for both the Bihar assembly polls and the bye-elections will be declared on November 14.

Yadav’s response reflects a blend of personal dignity and political messaging, aimed at appealing to voters while maintaining a stance of respect towards political adversaries. His remarks underscore a broader conversation about civility in political discourse, particularly in high-stakes electoral environments, and the role of public figures in shaping societal norms.

As campaigning intensifies across Bihar, this episode has added a new dimension to electoral narratives, highlighting both the intersections of celebrity influence in politics and the sensitivities surrounding personal attacks in public debates. While the BJP continues to push its campaign strategy and project its governance record, RJD’s focus on personal accountability, social issues, and respectful engagement forms a counter-narrative that seeks to resonate with voters seeking integrity and development-oriented leadership.

Khesari Lal Yadav’s engagement with the electorate also demonstrates how candidates from diverse professional backgrounds—particularly those with strong cultural and entertainment ties—can leverage their popularity and social credibility to address political controversies, while simultaneously articulating a developmental vision for their constituencies. By responding firmly yet respectfully to Chaudhary’s remarks, Yadav has positioned himself as a candidate who prioritises both dignity and constructive action, appealing to voters’ expectations for both character and capability in leadership.

With elections just days away, the impact of such exchanges may influence public perception, particularly among younger voters and first-time electors, who are attentive to both the tone and substance of political communication. Yadav’s emphasis on education, healthcare, and responsible public discourse aims to reinforce his commitment to the people of Chapra, distinguishing his approach from rhetoric perceived as derogatory or divisive.

The political atmosphere in Bihar remains charged, with multiple parties vying to secure voter trust. Incidents like Chaudhary’s remark and Yadav’s response illustrate how personal narratives and political messaging are intertwined, shaping the discourse around both governance issues and social values. Observers note that while the elections are a contest for legislative seats, they are also a reflection of broader societal attitudes toward respect, accountability, and the role of public figures in modeling appropriate conduct.

In this context, Khesari Lal Yadav’s measured yet firm rebuttal to the “nachaniya” comment may resonate as an example of maintaining dignity while actively engaging in the democratic process. His focus on constructive outcomes, rather than retaliatory rhetoric, aligns with his broader campaign commitments, signaling an effort to translate personal credibility into actionable political leadership for Chapra.

The unfolding electoral campaign will likely continue to witness such exchanges, as candidates balance personal image, party affiliation, and voter expectations. Khesari Lal Yadav’s public statements underscore the strategic importance of narrative management in contemporary politics, where both words and actions are scrutinised, and where respect for opponents and focus on constituency development can serve as distinguishing factors in voter decision-making.

Ultimately, the Chapra constituency—and Bihar at large—faces a critical moment in the upcoming elections. Voters will assess candidates not only on their party platforms and promises but also on how they navigate controversies, maintain civility, and articulate practical solutions to long-standing challenges in education, healthcare, and social development. Khesari Lal Yadav’s engagement exemplifies this dual responsibility, blending cultural influence with political acumen in pursuit of meaningful electoral impact.