May 27, 2026
Pollution to power: Scientists turn waste gas into clean fuel by adding bacteria

Pollution to power: Scientists turn waste gas into clean fuel by adding bacteria

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

In a laboratory in Norway, scientists have achieved something that sounds like science fiction: turning industrial waste gases into clean, usable fuel. Researchers at the Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO) added specialised bacteria to a reactor and watched as carbon dioxide and hydrogen transformed into nearly pure methane, exceeding 96 per cent purity. This…

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FDA plans to allow 12- to 15-year-olds to receive pfizer boosters

FDA plans to allow 12- to 15-year-olds to receive pfizer boosters

Vamsikrishna05 mins mins

WASHINGTON: The Food and Drug Administration is planning to broaden eligibility for coronavirus vaccine booster shots, allowing 12- to 15-year-olds to receive third doses of Pfizer-BioNTech’s vaccine, according to people familiar with the agency’s deliberations.Regulators are also expected to authorize an extra shot of Pfizer’s vaccine for both adolescents and adults five months after receiving…

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‘Keep dreaming!’ Iran’s Khamenei mocks Donald Trump’s nuclear claims; calls Gaza plan ‘empty’

‘Keep dreaming!’ Iran’s Khamenei mocks Donald Trump’s nuclear claims; calls Gaza plan ‘empty’

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Monday ridiculed US President Donald Trump’s claims that Washington destroyed Iran’s nuclear facilities, dismissing the assertion as delusional and branding Trump’s Gaza peace efforts as “empty talk and Zionist bravado.”In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Khamenei struck a defiant tone against the United States and…

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Top Diwali dinner spots in Dubai: Celebrate with Indian cuisine, vegetarian delights, and stunning rooftop views” | World News

Top Diwali dinner spots in Dubai: Celebrate with Indian cuisine, vegetarian delights, and stunning rooftop views” | World News

Vamsikrishna05 mins mins

Diwali in Dubai with special festive dinner destinations. Image: AI Representative Image. Diwali in Dubai transforms the city into a dazzling stage for culinary and cultural experiences, with fireworks lighting up the skies, festive menus at hundreds of Indian restaurants, and special events happening citywide. Whether you’re seeking rooftop venues with jaw-dropping fireworks views, exquisite…

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Former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel alleges his son Chaitanya’s imprisonment is politically motivated, claiming the Centre denied him permission to meet his son during Diwali. Baghel stated this is an act of political vendetta for opposing industrial projects, contrasting it with past governments’ leniency on festive visits. Bhupesh Baghel (PTI image) NEW DELHI: Former Chhattisgarh chief minister and senior Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel on Monday said he was denied permission by the Centre to meet his son, Chaitanya Baghel, who is currently in jail.He alleged that his son’s imprisonment was politically motivated and expressed frustration over being barred from a family visit during the Diwali festival.In a post on X, Baghel shared his frustration recalling that during previous governments, family visits on festive occasions were allowed. ED Arrests Ex-CM Bhupesh Baghel’s Son in ₹1,000 Crore Case, Congress Cries Political VendettaHe wrote: “Two decades ago, Chief Minister Ajit Jogi had sent Babuji to jail, but permission to meet him on Diwali had been granted. By the grace of Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, my son is in jail. Today is Diwali, but I do not have permission to meet him. I still wish everyone Diwali greetings.”.Speaking to ANI reporters in Durg, Congress leader alleged that his son’s imprisonment was politically motivated and claimed he was being denied basic visitation rights usually allowed to prisoners during festivals.“My son is in jail due to the actions of Amit Shah and Narendra Modi. Prisoners are allowed to meet their families during festivals like Raksha Bandhan, Eid, and Diwali. But I am not being allowed to meet my son this Diwali,” Baghel said.He also recalled that during previous governments, such restrictions were not imposed. “Twenty years ago, when my father was in jail, the whole family met him during Diwali. But now, under PM Modi’s government, such meetings are being denied,” he added.Baghel further alleged that his family was being targeted for opposing industrial projects. “Adani was cutting down trees in Tamnar. When I protested, my son was jailed. That is the reason for his arrest,” he said.He claimed other relatives have also been prevented from visiting Chaitanya, calling it a “complete ban” on family meetings during the festival.Chaitanya Baghel was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on July 18 in connection with an ongoing investigation into an alleged multi-crore liquor scam in Chhattisgarh. The former CM described his son’s detention as an act of political vendetta and an example of silencing dissent.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Justin Trudeau Destroyed…’: Ambassador Dinesh Patnaik Questions Safety Of Indians In CanadaA War Cry In Melody: Navy Dedicates Op Sindoor Song To PM During Diwali Celebration on INS Vikrant’Naxal-Maoist Terror Nearly Wiped Out Across India’: PM Modi Hails Police, CRPF, BSF10 Key Facts About Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant, Where PM Modi Celebrated Diwali With Naval Officers’You Gave Sleepless Nights To Pak’: PM Modi Hails INS Vikrant and BrahMos Role in Operation SindoorAyodhya Sets 2 Guinness World Records With Over 26 Lakh Diyas & Largest Saryu Aarti During Deepotsav‘7 Planes Were Shot Down’: Trump Repeats Claim Of Solving India-Pak ‘War’ Using ‘200% Tariff’ ThreatKuala Lumpur’s Little India Bazaar Bursts With Festive Spirit Despite Rising Costs in MalaysiaIndia Upgrades BrahMos Missile Strike Range to 800 Kms, Signals Strategic Shift to Pakistan, China’PM Modi Agreed To Stop Russian Oil’: Donald Trump Issues Harsh Warning To India Over Energy Ties123 Photostories Are you an introvert? 5 smart ways to prepare for an interview without losing yourselfBollywood stars’ best Diwali looks over the years: Alia Bhatt to Allu Arjun, here’s everyone who took desi looks to the next levelFrom Manholes to Machines: Maharashtra Transforms Sewer Cleaning 100 Robotic Sewer-Cleaners, Rs 100 Crore Investment High-Tech Move to End Manual Scavenging (Photos)7 creatures that eat dead animals to keep the ecosystem balanced11 traditional Japanese snacks to try on your next trip to JapanBollywood couples celebrating their first diwali with their newborns: From Parineeti Chopra-Raghav Chadha to Arbaaz Khan-Sshura KhanInside PM Modi’s Diwali celebrations with Navy personnel on INS Vikrant — In picturesWhat makes the Shore Temples of Mahabalipuram a UNESCO World Heritage Site?Photos: Bengaluru’s Ejipura Flyover Taking Shape Ahead of June 2026 Deadline; DK Shivakumar Inspects SiteHarvard gastroenterologist warns against three foods that quietly raise cancer risk123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingLauren KyleHow to get Greninjite in Pokemon LegendsAdam SandlerEmiru attackDurgapur Gang RapeLauren KyleDoug Martin Net WorthDaug Martin Cause of DeathChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel alleges his son Chaitanya’s imprisonment is politically motivated, claiming the Centre denied him permission to meet his son during Diwali. Baghel stated this is an act of political vendetta for opposing industrial projects, contrasting it with past governments’ leniency on festive visits. Bhupesh Baghel (PTI image) NEW DELHI: Former Chhattisgarh chief minister and senior Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel on Monday said he was denied permission by the Centre to meet his son, Chaitanya Baghel, who is currently in jail.He alleged that his son’s imprisonment was politically motivated and expressed frustration over being barred from a family visit during the Diwali festival.In a post on X, Baghel shared his frustration recalling that during previous governments, family visits on festive occasions were allowed. ED Arrests Ex-CM Bhupesh Baghel’s Son in ₹1,000 Crore Case, Congress Cries Political VendettaHe wrote: “Two decades ago, Chief Minister Ajit Jogi had sent Babuji to jail, but permission to meet him on Diwali had been granted. By the grace of Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, my son is in jail. Today is Diwali, but I do not have permission to meet him. I still wish everyone Diwali greetings.”.Speaking to ANI reporters in Durg, Congress leader alleged that his son’s imprisonment was politically motivated and claimed he was being denied basic visitation rights usually allowed to prisoners during festivals.“My son is in jail due to the actions of Amit Shah and Narendra Modi. Prisoners are allowed to meet their families during festivals like Raksha Bandhan, Eid, and Diwali. But I am not being allowed to meet my son this Diwali,” Baghel said.He also recalled that during previous governments, such restrictions were not imposed. “Twenty years ago, when my father was in jail, the whole family met him during Diwali. But now, under PM Modi’s government, such meetings are being denied,” he added.Baghel further alleged that his family was being targeted for opposing industrial projects. “Adani was cutting down trees in Tamnar. When I protested, my son was jailed. That is the reason for his arrest,” he said.He claimed other relatives have also been prevented from visiting Chaitanya, calling it a “complete ban” on family meetings during the festival.Chaitanya Baghel was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on July 18 in connection with an ongoing investigation into an alleged multi-crore liquor scam in Chhattisgarh. The former CM described his son’s detention as an act of political vendetta and an example of silencing dissent.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Justin Trudeau Destroyed…’: Ambassador Dinesh Patnaik Questions Safety Of Indians In CanadaA War Cry In Melody: Navy Dedicates Op Sindoor Song To PM During Diwali Celebration on INS Vikrant’Naxal-Maoist Terror Nearly Wiped Out Across India’: PM Modi Hails Police, CRPF, BSF10 Key Facts About Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant, Where PM Modi Celebrated Diwali With Naval Officers’You Gave Sleepless Nights To Pak’: PM Modi Hails INS Vikrant and BrahMos Role in Operation SindoorAyodhya Sets 2 Guinness World Records With Over 26 Lakh Diyas & Largest Saryu Aarti During Deepotsav‘7 Planes Were Shot Down’: Trump Repeats Claim Of Solving India-Pak ‘War’ Using ‘200% Tariff’ ThreatKuala Lumpur’s Little India Bazaar Bursts With Festive Spirit Despite Rising Costs in MalaysiaIndia Upgrades BrahMos Missile Strike Range to 800 Kms, Signals Strategic Shift to Pakistan, China’PM Modi Agreed To Stop Russian Oil’: Donald Trump Issues Harsh Warning To India Over Energy Ties123 Photostories Are you an introvert? 5 smart ways to prepare for an interview without losing yourselfBollywood stars’ best Diwali looks over the years: Alia Bhatt to Allu Arjun, here’s everyone who took desi looks to the next levelFrom Manholes to Machines: Maharashtra Transforms Sewer Cleaning 100 Robotic Sewer-Cleaners, Rs 100 Crore Investment High-Tech Move to End Manual Scavenging (Photos)7 creatures that eat dead animals to keep the ecosystem balanced11 traditional Japanese snacks to try on your next trip to JapanBollywood couples celebrating their first diwali with their newborns: From Parineeti Chopra-Raghav Chadha to Arbaaz Khan-Sshura KhanInside PM Modi’s Diwali celebrations with Navy personnel on INS Vikrant — In picturesWhat makes the Shore Temples of Mahabalipuram a UNESCO World Heritage Site?Photos: Bengaluru’s Ejipura Flyover Taking Shape Ahead of June 2026 Deadline; DK Shivakumar Inspects SiteHarvard gastroenterologist warns against three foods that quietly raise cancer risk123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingLauren KyleHow to get Greninjite in Pokemon LegendsAdam SandlerEmiru attackDurgapur Gang RapeLauren KyleDoug Martin Net WorthDaug Martin Cause of DeathChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Bhupesh Baghel (PTI image) NEW DELHI: Former Chhattisgarh chief minister and senior Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel on Monday said he was denied permission by the Centre to meet his son, Chaitanya Baghel, who is currently in jail.He alleged that his son’s imprisonment was politically motivated and expressed frustration over being barred from a family visit…

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Updated: Oct 20, 2025, 09:19 IST

Updated: Oct 20, 2025, 09:19 IST

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Viat Kohli and Rohit Sharma returned to international cricket after a seven-month break but struggled on Perth’s challenging surface, scoring 0 and 8 respectively. (Image credit: Agencies) NEW DELHI: Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has expressed confidence that Indian stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will bounce back strongly in the second ODI against Australia in…

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‘Disappointed’: Former India cricketer slams Shubman Gill’s leadership and team selection after India’s defeat in Perth

‘Disappointed’: Former India cricketer slams Shubman Gill’s leadership and team selection after India’s defeat in Perth

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Shubman Gill of India (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images) Shubman Gill’s maiden outing as India’s ODI captain ended on a disappointing note, with the visitors succumbing to a seven-wicket defeat against Australia in a rain-hit encounter at Perth. The result exposed shortcomings in both departments, as India’s batting faltered and the bowlers failed to apply…

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India’s medical education sees historic surge as MBBS seats reach 1,37,600: State-wise distribution here

India’s medical education sees historic surge as MBBS seats reach 1,37,600: State-wise distribution here

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

India’s medical education sees historic surge as MBBS seats reach 1,37,600 India’s medical education sector is witnessing an unprecedented transformation, with a historic surge in MBBS seats and new medical colleges across the country. Spearheaded by the National Medical Commission (NMC), this expansion aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2024 pledge to create 75,000 new…

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Travis Scott’s Delhi concert: Fans try to pull the rapper into the crowd, jump barricade; security intervenes – Watch

Travis Scott’s Delhi concert: Fans try to pull the rapper into the crowd, jump barricade; security intervenes – Watch

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Travis Scott’s Delhi concert saw an overwhelming surge of enthusiastic fans on Saturday night. During his performance at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, the rapper descended to meet the front row, leading to a chaotic scene where fans attempted to pull him into the crowd. Security intervened swiftly to manage the situation, ensuring the artist’s safety amidst…

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Chipmaker TSMC returns to the list of world’s 10 most valuable companies: Here’s what led to its comeback

Chipmaker TSMC returns to the list of world’s 10 most valuable companies: Here’s what led to its comeback

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) has reclaimed a spot in the list of the world’s 10 most valuable companies, riding the optimism of the artificial intelligence (AI) boom in the tech industry that pushed its stock to record levels.According to a report by Bloomberg, TSMC’s stock rallied 14% last week, elevating the chipmaker’s market capitalisation…

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California at risk? The “Really Big One” could strike and cause massive damage, scientists warn

California at risk? The “Really Big One” could strike and cause massive damage, scientists warn

Vamsikrishna05 mins mins

Source: The New York Times Scientists have found that a massive earthquake in the Pacific Northwest could trigger a second catastrophic quake along California’s San Andreas Fault. A study published in SciTechDaily reveals that seismic stress from one fault system can transfer to another, creating a dangerous domino effect across the region. This challenges the…

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FIIs set for comeback in equity markets; driven by macro strength, moderating valuations: Report

FIIs set for comeback in equity markets; driven by macro strength, moderating valuations: Report

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

After foreign institutional investor (FII) outflows worth nearly Rs 2 lakh crore year-to-date, equities are showing early signs of recovery, according to Elara Capital. The brokerage attributes this turnaround to India’s resilient macroeconomic backdrop within emerging markets (EMs), alongside moderating valuations and stabilising earnings revisions.“With valuation premiums cooling and earnings outlook steadying, conditions now favour…

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Bihar’s 2025 assembly elections are witnessing a cinematic twist with folk singer Maithili Thakur and Bhojpuri actors Khesari Lal Yadav and Pawan Singh entering the political arena. The BJP and RJD are leveraging their star power and regional appeal to consolidate caste loyalties and energize voters, blending celebrity charisma with intricate political calculations. (From left) Pawan Singh, Maithili Thakur and Khesari Lal Yadav NEW DELHI: Bihar’s election stage has always had drama, but this time, the script has a cinematic twist. Folk singer Maithili Thakur, and Bhojpuri actors Khesari Lal Yadav and Pawan Singh, have all entered the political frame, turning the 2025 assembly battle into a fusion of star power and caste calculation.The BJP has fielded Maithili Thakur from Alinagar in Darbhanga, while the RJD has handed its Chapra ticket to Khesari Lal Yadav. Adding to the intrigue, Pawan Singh, who was once at odds with the BJP, has rejoined the party after months of speculation.Shah Avoids Naming Bihar CM Face, Says Bihar CM to Be Decided by Elected MLAsTogether, the three represent how Bihar’s two biggest parties are turning to popular faces from music and cinema to stir old loyalties and reshape caste equations.Maithili Thakur: The Mithila pride cardAlinagar sits in the heart of the Mithila region, where identity and language carry deep cultural pride. The BJP’s choice of Maithili Thakur is not just a nod to local sentiment but also a tactical move to expand appeal in a seat that has been closely fought.The constituency has shifted hands several times in recent years, and margins have been narrow. Maithili, a household name in the region, brings a blend of youth connect and cultural symbolism that the BJP hopes can widen its support base beyond traditional voters.Her campaign songs and folk roots are expected to draw attention across caste lines, especially among women and young voters who form a decisive chunk of the electorate.Khesari Lal Yadav: RJD’s bid for the massesIf the BJP is playing the Mithila card, the RJD has chosen to bank on Bhojpuri stardom. Khesari Lal Yadav’s candidature from Chapra in Saran district is designed to add glamour to a contest that has long been decided by caste arithmetic.Chapra has traditionally been a battleground between Yadavs and Rajputs, and the RJD’s decision to field Khesari is an attempt to consolidate the Yadav vote while energising youth and migrant workers who idolise him. The BJP won Chapra in 2020, but with thin margins. Khesari’s popularity among lower and backward castes gives the RJD a chance to turn that equation on its head.The party hopes that his folk appeal, built through music that often celebrates aspiration and struggle, will connect emotionally with voters who see politics through the lens of identity and pride rather than policy.The BJP-Pawan Singh reunionThe BJP’s patch-up with Pawan Singh was as political as it was pragmatic. A Rajput by caste and a massive name in the Bhojpuri entertainment industry, Singh had previously rebelled and flirted with contesting independently. His differences with the BJP had threatened to split the Rajput vote, especially in the Shahabad and Bhojpur regions where caste balance is delicate.His return to the party fold is a calculated move to heal that rift. BJP leaders believe Singh’s presence will help consolidate upper-caste support and attract younger, entertainment-driven voters who identify with his larger-than-life persona. The party has suffered from factionalism in parts of Shahabad, and Singh’s popularity in districts like Arrah, Buxar, and Karakat could help the BJP offset anti-incumbency and regain lost ground.The caste arithmeticAccording to Census data and voter surveys, the caste profile of these regions explains why the BJP and RJD chose their celebrity candidates so carefully. In Darbhanga’s Alinagar, upper castes, especially Maithil Brahmins and Rajputs, together account for about 25 to 30 per cent of the electorate, while Yadavs, Muslims, and EBC groups form the rest.Maithili Thakur’s candidature appeals directly to the Maithil Brahmin identity and to cultural pride cutting across caste lines. In Saran’s Chapra, Yadavs make up roughly 20 to 22 per cent, Rajputs and Bhumihars about 15 to 18 per cent, and EBCs and Muslims the remainder.That arithmetic explains why the RJD placed its faith in Khesari Lal Yadav to deepen Yadav consolidation while reaching EBC and lower-caste Bhojpuri voters who relate to him.Further west, in the Shahabad and Bhojpur belt, where Pawan Singh holds sway, Rajputs and Bhumihars together exceed 25 per cent, making them a crucial bloc for the BJP to retain. His re-entry aims to keep that segment united and offset the erosion seen in parts of Arrah and Karakat during 2024.While celebrity names attract attention, they do not always convert into victories. Bihar’s elections are fought at the booth level, where caste networks, local loyalty, and the ground machinery of parties still decide outcomes.Maithili’s appeal may help the BJP in Mithila, but it will need organisational muscle to translate her popularity into votes. Khesari’s fame gives the RJD visibility, but turning fans into voters requires the kind of micro-level mobilisation that only a well-oiled party machine can provide.Pawan Singh’s Rajput credentials may strengthen the BJP’s caste equation, but overreliance on charisma can backfire if local candidates fail to deliver on expectations.The entry of Maithili Thakur, Khesari Lal Yadav, and Pawan Singh has turned Bihar’s election into a curious blend of celebrity, caste, and calculation. The BJP and RJD are both using star power to energise their bases, yet beneath the glamour, it remains a story about numbers, of seats, votes, and social groups.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Justin Trudeau Destroyed…’: Ambassador Dinesh Patnaik Questions Safety Of Indians In CanadaA War Cry In Melody: Navy Dedicates Op Sindoor Song To PM During Diwali Celebration on INS Vikrant’Naxal-Maoist Terror Nearly Wiped Out Across India’: PM Modi Hails Police, CRPF, BSF10 Key Facts About Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant, Where PM Modi Celebrated Diwali With Naval Officers’You Gave Sleepless Nights To Pak’: PM Modi Hails INS Vikrant and BrahMos Role in Operation SindoorAyodhya Sets 2 Guinness World Records With Over 26 Lakh Diyas & Largest Saryu Aarti During Deepotsav‘7 Planes Were Shot Down’: Trump Repeats Claim Of Solving India-Pak ‘War’ Using ‘200% Tariff’ ThreatKuala Lumpur’s Little India Bazaar Bursts With Festive Spirit Despite Rising Costs in MalaysiaIndia Upgrades BrahMos Missile Strike Range to 800 Kms, Signals Strategic Shift to Pakistan, China’PM Modi Agreed To Stop Russian Oil’: Donald Trump Issues Harsh Warning To India Over Energy Ties123 Photostories 10 traditional snacks from Italy one needs to tryFrom ‘Vicky Donor’ to ‘Article 15’: Films that prove why ‘Thama’ actor Ayushmann Khurrana is Bollywood’s king of contentAlia Bhatt wore a 30-year-old saree to Kareena Kapoor’s Diwali party and made it 2025’s top festive trendAre you an introvert? 5 smart ways to prepare for an interview without losing yourselfBollywood stars’ best Diwali looks over the years: Alia Bhatt to Allu Arjun, here’s everyone who took desi looks to the next levelFrom Manholes to Machines: Maharashtra Transforms Sewer Cleaning 100 Robotic Sewer-Cleaners, Rs 100 Crore Investment High-Tech Move to End Manual Scavenging (Photos)7 creatures that eat dead animals to keep the ecosystem balanced11 traditional Japanese snacks to try on your next trip to JapanBollywood couples celebrating their first diwali with their newborns: From Parineeti Chopra-Raghav Chadha to Arbaaz Khan-Sshura KhanInside PM Modi’s Diwali celebrations with Navy personnel on INS Vikrant — In pictures123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingLauren KyleHow to get Greninjite in Pokemon LegendsAdam SandlerEmiru attackDurgapur Gang RapeLauren KyleDoug Martin Net WorthDaug Martin Cause of DeathChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Bihar’s 2025 assembly elections are witnessing a cinematic twist with folk singer Maithili Thakur and Bhojpuri actors Khesari Lal Yadav and Pawan Singh entering the political arena. The BJP and RJD are leveraging their star power and regional appeal to consolidate caste loyalties and energize voters, blending celebrity charisma with intricate political calculations. (From left) Pawan Singh, Maithili Thakur and Khesari Lal Yadav NEW DELHI: Bihar’s election stage has always had drama, but this time, the script has a cinematic twist. Folk singer Maithili Thakur, and Bhojpuri actors Khesari Lal Yadav and Pawan Singh, have all entered the political frame, turning the 2025 assembly battle into a fusion of star power and caste calculation.The BJP has fielded Maithili Thakur from Alinagar in Darbhanga, while the RJD has handed its Chapra ticket to Khesari Lal Yadav. Adding to the intrigue, Pawan Singh, who was once at odds with the BJP, has rejoined the party after months of speculation.Shah Avoids Naming Bihar CM Face, Says Bihar CM to Be Decided by Elected MLAsTogether, the three represent how Bihar’s two biggest parties are turning to popular faces from music and cinema to stir old loyalties and reshape caste equations.Maithili Thakur: The Mithila pride cardAlinagar sits in the heart of the Mithila region, where identity and language carry deep cultural pride. The BJP’s choice of Maithili Thakur is not just a nod to local sentiment but also a tactical move to expand appeal in a seat that has been closely fought.The constituency has shifted hands several times in recent years, and margins have been narrow. Maithili, a household name in the region, brings a blend of youth connect and cultural symbolism that the BJP hopes can widen its support base beyond traditional voters.Her campaign songs and folk roots are expected to draw attention across caste lines, especially among women and young voters who form a decisive chunk of the electorate.Khesari Lal Yadav: RJD’s bid for the massesIf the BJP is playing the Mithila card, the RJD has chosen to bank on Bhojpuri stardom. Khesari Lal Yadav’s candidature from Chapra in Saran district is designed to add glamour to a contest that has long been decided by caste arithmetic.Chapra has traditionally been a battleground between Yadavs and Rajputs, and the RJD’s decision to field Khesari is an attempt to consolidate the Yadav vote while energising youth and migrant workers who idolise him. The BJP won Chapra in 2020, but with thin margins. Khesari’s popularity among lower and backward castes gives the RJD a chance to turn that equation on its head.The party hopes that his folk appeal, built through music that often celebrates aspiration and struggle, will connect emotionally with voters who see politics through the lens of identity and pride rather than policy.The BJP-Pawan Singh reunionThe BJP’s patch-up with Pawan Singh was as political as it was pragmatic. A Rajput by caste and a massive name in the Bhojpuri entertainment industry, Singh had previously rebelled and flirted with contesting independently. His differences with the BJP had threatened to split the Rajput vote, especially in the Shahabad and Bhojpur regions where caste balance is delicate.His return to the party fold is a calculated move to heal that rift. BJP leaders believe Singh’s presence will help consolidate upper-caste support and attract younger, entertainment-driven voters who identify with his larger-than-life persona. The party has suffered from factionalism in parts of Shahabad, and Singh’s popularity in districts like Arrah, Buxar, and Karakat could help the BJP offset anti-incumbency and regain lost ground.The caste arithmeticAccording to Census data and voter surveys, the caste profile of these regions explains why the BJP and RJD chose their celebrity candidates so carefully. In Darbhanga’s Alinagar, upper castes, especially Maithil Brahmins and Rajputs, together account for about 25 to 30 per cent of the electorate, while Yadavs, Muslims, and EBC groups form the rest.Maithili Thakur’s candidature appeals directly to the Maithil Brahmin identity and to cultural pride cutting across caste lines. In Saran’s Chapra, Yadavs make up roughly 20 to 22 per cent, Rajputs and Bhumihars about 15 to 18 per cent, and EBCs and Muslims the remainder.That arithmetic explains why the RJD placed its faith in Khesari Lal Yadav to deepen Yadav consolidation while reaching EBC and lower-caste Bhojpuri voters who relate to him.Further west, in the Shahabad and Bhojpur belt, where Pawan Singh holds sway, Rajputs and Bhumihars together exceed 25 per cent, making them a crucial bloc for the BJP to retain. His re-entry aims to keep that segment united and offset the erosion seen in parts of Arrah and Karakat during 2024.While celebrity names attract attention, they do not always convert into victories. Bihar’s elections are fought at the booth level, where caste networks, local loyalty, and the ground machinery of parties still decide outcomes.Maithili’s appeal may help the BJP in Mithila, but it will need organisational muscle to translate her popularity into votes. Khesari’s fame gives the RJD visibility, but turning fans into voters requires the kind of micro-level mobilisation that only a well-oiled party machine can provide.Pawan Singh’s Rajput credentials may strengthen the BJP’s caste equation, but overreliance on charisma can backfire if local candidates fail to deliver on expectations.The entry of Maithili Thakur, Khesari Lal Yadav, and Pawan Singh has turned Bihar’s election into a curious blend of celebrity, caste, and calculation. The BJP and RJD are both using star power to energise their bases, yet beneath the glamour, it remains a story about numbers, of seats, votes, and social groups.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Justin Trudeau Destroyed…’: Ambassador Dinesh Patnaik Questions Safety Of Indians In CanadaA War Cry In Melody: Navy Dedicates Op Sindoor Song To PM During Diwali Celebration on INS Vikrant’Naxal-Maoist Terror Nearly Wiped Out Across India’: PM Modi Hails Police, CRPF, BSF10 Key Facts About Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant, Where PM Modi Celebrated Diwali With Naval Officers’You Gave Sleepless Nights To Pak’: PM Modi Hails INS Vikrant and BrahMos Role in Operation SindoorAyodhya Sets 2 Guinness World Records With Over 26 Lakh Diyas & Largest Saryu Aarti During Deepotsav‘7 Planes Were Shot Down’: Trump Repeats Claim Of Solving India-Pak ‘War’ Using ‘200% Tariff’ ThreatKuala Lumpur’s Little India Bazaar Bursts With Festive Spirit Despite Rising Costs in MalaysiaIndia Upgrades BrahMos Missile Strike Range to 800 Kms, Signals Strategic Shift to Pakistan, China’PM Modi Agreed To Stop Russian Oil’: Donald Trump Issues Harsh Warning To India Over Energy Ties123 Photostories 10 traditional snacks from Italy one needs to tryFrom ‘Vicky Donor’ to ‘Article 15’: Films that prove why ‘Thama’ actor Ayushmann Khurrana is Bollywood’s king of contentAlia Bhatt wore a 30-year-old saree to Kareena Kapoor’s Diwali party and made it 2025’s top festive trendAre you an introvert? 5 smart ways to prepare for an interview without losing yourselfBollywood stars’ best Diwali looks over the years: Alia Bhatt to Allu Arjun, here’s everyone who took desi looks to the next levelFrom Manholes to Machines: Maharashtra Transforms Sewer Cleaning 100 Robotic Sewer-Cleaners, Rs 100 Crore Investment High-Tech Move to End Manual Scavenging (Photos)7 creatures that eat dead animals to keep the ecosystem balanced11 traditional Japanese snacks to try on your next trip to JapanBollywood couples celebrating their first diwali with their newborns: From Parineeti Chopra-Raghav Chadha to Arbaaz Khan-Sshura KhanInside PM Modi’s Diwali celebrations with Navy personnel on INS Vikrant — In pictures123Hot PicksDhanteras Gold PriceVande Bharat SleeperBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays OctoberBank Holidays OctoberTop TrendingLauren KyleHow to get Greninjite in Pokemon LegendsAdam SandlerEmiru attackDurgapur Gang RapeLauren KyleDoug Martin Net WorthDaug Martin Cause of DeathChris JonesStephanie Lachances

Vamsikrishna05 mins mins

(From left) Pawan Singh, Maithili Thakur and Khesari Lal Yadav NEW DELHI: Bihar’s election stage has always had drama, but this time, the script has a cinematic twist. Folk singer Maithili Thakur, and Bhojpuri actors Khesari Lal Yadav and Pawan Singh, have all entered the political frame, turning the 2025 assembly battle into a fusion…

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