Patna: On polling day in Bihar, the atmosphere was as much spiritual as it was political. As voting began across 18 districts on Thursday, many candidates—whose fate now rests in the hands of voters—began their morning with temple visits, seeking divine blessings before heading to their constituencies.
For Maithili Thakur, the singer-turned-politician contesting from Alinagar in Darbhanga on a BJP ticket, the day began with prayers at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Clad in a simple saree, she folded her hands before the deity and later told reporters, “I start each day by offering prayers. I’m learning new things every day. My focus is to ensure that no voter faces any problem. I am ready.”
A first-time candidate and one of the youngest faces in the fray, Thakur’s campaign in Alinagar has blended cultural appeal with political messaging. Her devotional songs and grassroots connect have drawn large crowds in the run-up to polling.
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In Mokama, RJD candidate Veena Devi and her husband, former MP Surajbhan Singh, too began their day at a local temple. Lighting incense sticks and offering flowers, the couple sought blessings before Devi proceeded to oversee polling activities.
“This is Mahaparv—a great festival of democracy,” Surajbhan said, speaking to supporters outside the temple. “We have prayed for peace and harmony today. I appeal to the people of Bihar to vote responsibly. Pehle vote, tab jalpan (First vote, then refreshments).”
Across the state, Thursday’s scenes captured a familiar rhythm of Bihar’s elections—where faith and politics often walk hand in hand. As polling continued through the morning, the sounds of temple bells and campaign slogans mingled in the air, setting the tone for a day that would decide the political future of over a hundred candidates.
