Folk Icon Steps into the Political Arena
Celebrated folk singer Maithili Thakur officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday, signaling a remarkable shift from cultural stardom to active politics. According to party insiders, she is a strong contender for the BJP ticket from the Alinagar Assembly seat in Darbhanga, Bihar. This development is expected to result in the current MLA, Mishrilal Yadav, being denied renomination.
Maithili’s widespread appeal—especially across the Mithila region—combined with her influential social media presence, positions her as a potentially powerful face for the BJP’s campaign in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections. If nominated, Maithili would become the first prominent folk singer of Bihar to make a direct political debut, marking a unique confluence of culture and governance.
A Meeting That Sparked Speculation
Maithili recently met Vinod Tawde, the BJP’s National General Secretary (Organisation), fueling speculation about her political intentions. Speaking to Aaj Tak following the meeting, she described the discussion as positive and forward-looking. Thakur confirmed her ideological alignment with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and expressed that the BJP had always been her preferred political platform.
Though she resides in Delhi for professional reasons, Maithili emphasized her deep-rooted emotional connection to Bihar. She articulated a clear desire to return to her home state, stating her commitment to contributing to its growth and uplifting its people.
Thakur Signals Readiness for Electoral Politics
The groundwork for her political entry had already been laid earlier this month. On October 5, Vinod Tawde shared a photo with Maithili Thakur on his former Twitter handle, captioning it with a powerful message. He highlighted how Thakur’s family had migrated from Bihar during Lalu Prasad Yadav’s regime in 1995, but that Maithili now wishes to return—encouraged by the transformative progress she sees in the state.
At 25, Maithili embodies a generational shift—a young, culturally connected, and socially engaged figure stepping into public service.
Who is Maithili Thakur?
A Voice of the Maithili Heartland
Maithili Thakur is a name synonymous with Maithili folk music and the rich cultural heritage of the Mithila region. Hailing from Darbhanga, Bihar, she has earned national acclaim for her vocal prowess and deep-rooted commitment to preserving regional art forms. Her performances have not only resonated across India but have also garnered international attention, especially among diaspora communities.
A Musical Legacy Shaped by Family
Born into a family of musicians, Maithili’s artistic journey began in childhood under the tutelage of her father, Ramesh Thakur, and grandfather—both accomplished musicians and teachers of Hindustani classical music. Her mother, Bharti Thakur, also shares this musical lineage. Maithili and her two younger brothers, who are also accomplished in music, were trained rigorously in classical styles, particularly in vocal music, harmonium, and tabla.
A trained playback singer, Maithili is proficient in multiple languages and music genres. Her authenticity, discipline, and dedication have earned her a devoted fanbase and now, potentially, a new role in public service.
