In Chapra, a traditional stronghold of Lalu Prasad Yadav’s RJD that has since been taken over by the NDA, the upcoming election has evolved into a battle between change and continuity. Bihar’s Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary recently organized a rally to support the BJP’s newcomer, Chhoti Kumari, trying to mitigate the impact of anti-incumbency and present the ruling alliance as a symbol of ongoing development. Meanwhile, RJD candidate Shatrughan Yadav, popularly known as Khesari Lal Yadav—a renowned Bhojpuri film star and singer—attracted large audiences during his roadshow through the narrow alleyways of Revelganj.
His involvement has reinvigorated the RJD’s campaign, with the party optimistic that his celebrity status and local connections will appeal to voters frustrated by unfulfilled development promises. As the NDA faces challenges in retaining a seat it previously secured from Lalu’s faction, the RJD is relying on Khesari’s widespread appeal to create a significant political impact in Chapra.