Updated on: October 14, 2025 | Patna

Singer Maithili Thakur, the popular young voice celebrated for reviving traditional Maithili folk and classical music, officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday, marking her formal entry into active politics just weeks ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections. The induction ceremony took place at the party headquarters in Patna, where Maithili was welcomed by Bihar BJP president Dilip Jaiswal and other senior party leaders.

The 24-year-old singer, who has garnered massive social media popularity for her renditions of traditional songs and bhajans, expressed gratitude to the party and said her decision stemmed from a desire to contribute to the state’s development. Speaking to the media after the event, she said, “I have always been inspired by the leadership and vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Bihar through the BJP. I will do whatever the party asks of me — contesting elections is not my goal, but serving the people is.”

From Music to Politics: A Journey of Inspiration

Maithili Thakur’s journey from an internet sensation to a political figure reflects a unique blending of art, culture, and public engagement. Born in the Benipatti block of Madhubani district, she belongs to a family of musicians who have nurtured her talent since childhood. She gained nationwide fame after appearing on the reality show Rising Star in 2017 and later for her soulful performances of Maithili, Bhojpuri, and Hindi songs online.

Her disciplined training in Hindustani classical music under her father, Ramesh Thakur, has given her a strong foundation in traditional art forms, which she frequently uses to promote Bihar’s cultural heritage. Her popularity on digital platforms — where she regularly uploads devotional songs and regional folk pieces — has made her a youth icon, particularly among the Maithil-speaking population of Bihar and neighboring states.

Why BJP? Maithili Explains Her Political Debut

In her statement, Maithili made it clear that her association with the BJP is rooted in ideological alignment and admiration for the leadership of Prime Minister Modi. “I have been listening to his Mann Ki Baat and live speeches for years. His dedication to India’s progress and his emphasis on culture and youth empowerment have always inspired me,” she said.

She added that her entry into politics is not motivated by personal ambition but by a sense of duty to contribute to her home state’s development. “I will do whatever the party assigns me — whether it’s campaigning, connecting with youth, or promoting our culture. I want to work for Bihar’s growth and for the upliftment of our traditional arts and artists,” she remarked.

Deep Roots in Bihar: The Emotional Connection

Maithili Thakur’s cultural and emotional connection with Bihar runs deep. When asked about her preference for a constituency, she said, “My grandmother’s village is in Madhubani and my maternal grandmother’s village is in Darbhanga. People from both places love me equally. I have a strong emotional connection to both districts, but ultimately, it is up to the party to decide where I can serve best.”

Both Madhubani and Darbhanga hold significant political and cultural importance in Bihar. The twin regions are known for their rich art traditions — including the globally acclaimed Madhubani paintings — and are seen as influential in shaping the state’s cultural identity. By associating herself with these regions, Maithili has aligned her political identity with her cultural roots, appealing to a large base of traditional voters who respect her as a torchbearer of Maithili culture.

Political Context: BJP’s Strategy Ahead of the Polls

The BJP’s decision to induct Maithili Thakur comes at a strategic time. The 2025 Bihar Assembly elections are being closely contested, with the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) — consisting of the BJP and its allies — facing off against the opposition coalition led by the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Congress.

By bringing Maithili on board, the BJP appears to be aiming at strengthening its connection with young voters, cultural communities, and women across the Mithilanchal region. Her influence among youth and her positive image as a non-controversial, respected artist could provide the party with a valuable cultural and emotional appeal in a state where identity and tradition play a strong role in politics.

The BJP has already announced its first list of 71 candidates for the 243-member Bihar Assembly. While Maithili has not been named in the list, senior party leaders have hinted that she will be an important part of the campaign, especially in the Mithilanchal belt. Her presence is expected to attract first-time voters and create a bridge between the party’s development narrative and cultural heritage themes.

Bihar Elections 2025: Key Details

The Bihar Assembly elections will take place in two phases — November 6 and November 11 — with the counting of votes scheduled for November 14. The elections are expected to be a crucial test for both the ruling BJP-led NDA and the opposition alliance led by Tejashwi Yadav.

BJP leaders in Patna have described Maithili’s induction as a “cultural boost” to the party’s campaign. State BJP president Dilip Jaiswal said during the event, “Maithili Thakur represents the pride and culture of Bihar. Her voice has reached millions, and her entry into politics will inspire the youth and reinforce our message that culture and development go hand in hand.”

Public and Political Reactions

The news of Maithili Thakur joining the BJP has sparked mixed reactions across social and political circles. Supporters hailed the move, saying her presence would bring “purity and integrity” to politics. Many social media users celebrated the announcement, calling her “the perfect blend of culture and change.”

However, opposition leaders criticized the timing of her induction, suggesting that the BJP was attempting to capitalize on her popularity for electoral gains. RJD spokesperson Shakti Singh Yadav said, “The BJP is trying to hide its failures by using cultural figures to divert attention. Maithili Thakur is a respected artist — she should stay above politics.”

In response, BJP leaders maintained that Maithili’s joining is a voluntary decision driven by her personal conviction and not by electoral opportunism.

A Voice for Bihar’s Art and Artists

Maithili Thakur has long advocated for the recognition and preservation of Bihar’s traditional art forms. In her public appearances and interviews, she has often spoken about the need to support local artists who struggle due to lack of infrastructure and opportunities.

“I want to use my platform to promote Bihar’s art, language, and culture. Politics gives me a larger space to do this effectively. I believe culture and development must progress together,” she said during her induction.

Her joining the BJP also aligns with the party’s efforts to highlight India’s cultural roots as part of its governance and outreach narrative. By merging art and activism, Maithili’s political journey may represent a broader trend of cultural figures entering politics to influence social change from within the system.

The Road Ahead

Whether Maithili Thakur will contest the upcoming election remains uncertain, but her presence has already made an impact on Bihar’s political landscape. With her reputation for humility, cultural pride, and clean image, she could become a significant face for BJP’s cultural outreach in the years ahead.

Political analysts note that even if she doesn’t contest, her involvement in campaigning could draw massive crowds, especially among women and first-time voters in North Bihar. Her ability to connect emotionally through her songs and speeches gives her a unique edge as a communicator — something few traditional politicians possess.

For now, Maithili Thakur’s political debut symbolizes a new chapter in Bihar’s evolving electoral scene — one where art, culture, and governance converge to redefine public leadership. As the election dates approach, her next steps — whether as a campaigner, cultural ambassador, or potential candidate — will be watched closely.