RJD banks on Bhojpuri star Khesari Lal Yadav to reclaim Saran seat from NDA

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav has pinned hopes on Bhojpuri superstar Khesari Lal Yadav to reclaim the Saran seat in Bihar's upcoming assembly elections, a traditional Lalu Prasad Yadav stronghold lost to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in 2020. Khesari, a popular actor and singer with hits like "Lollipop Lagelu," received a rousing welcome in Chhapra with a milk bath from supporters, but sparked controversy by responding to BJP MP Ravi Kishan's criticism, stating: "Not against religion but... temple alone won't give jobs."

The 38-year-old debutant, fielded from Saran on 20 October, aims to leverage his massive fanbase among Bihar's rural youth to challenge BJP's Ram Kripal Yadav, amid a bipolar contest between the Mahagathbandhan and NDA. Khesari's entry adds glamour to Bihar's poll landscape, but his remarks on religion and jobs have drawn sharp divides, with critics accusing him of disrespecting faith.

Khesari's grand entry: Milk bath welcome

Khesari Lal Yadav kicked off his campaign in Chhapra on 17 October with a dramatic reception, where supporters bathed him in milk as he arrived on a decorated chariot amid chants and folk songs. The event, attended by thousands, showcased his star appeal in Saran, a Yadav-dominated constituency where RJD seeks to reclaim ground lost in 2020 when BJP's Ram Kripal Yadav defeated RJD's Chandrika Roy. Khesari, addressing the crowd, promised jobs and development, stating: "I am here to serve the people of Saran, not just as a star but as a son of the soil."

The milk bath, a traditional honour in Bihar, symbolised local enthusiasm but drew criticism for extravagance amid the state's economic challenges. Tejashwi Yadav, announcing the ticket, said: "Khesari is a youth icon who understands the pain of Bihar's people." Saran, once an RJD bastion under Lalu Prasad, shifted to NDA in 2020 due to anti-incumbency and caste realignments.

Response to Ravi Kishan's criticism

Khesari's campaign hit controversy when BJP MP and Bhojpuri actor Ravi Kishan accused him of being "anti-religion" for his remarks on temples and jobs. Khesari fired back: "Not against religion but... temple alone won't give jobs." He elaborated: "I respect all religions, but youth need employment, not just prayers." Kishan, from Gorakhpur, had said: "Khesari is misleading people with anti-Hindu statements."

The exchange escalated Bhojpuri star rivalry into politics, with Khesari's comments resonating in job-hungry Bihar but risking backlash from religious voters. Tejashwi defended him: "Khesari speaks for the unemployed youth."

RJD's strategy in fielding Khesari

RJD hopes Khesari's star power will deliver a "hit" in Saran, a Yadav belt where his films like "Baapji" and songs resonate with rural masses. Tejashwi stated: "Khesari is a people's artist who will fight for Saran's development." The seat, Lalu's former stronghold, saw RJD's narrow 2020 loss; Khesari's appeal among EBCs and youth could tip the scales in the bipolar NDA-Mahagathbandhan fight.

Analysts note star candidates boost turnout, but success depends on ground connect. Khesari's campaign focuses on jobs, education, and migration, aligning with Tejashwi's agenda.

Bihar's elections often feature celebrities: In 2020, Bhojpuri star Pawan Singh contested, though unsuccessfully. Khesari's entry adds glamour, but critics question if fame translates to governance. As nominations close on 25 October, Saran remains a key battleground.