Patna: As campaigning for the second and final phase of the Bihar Assembly elections drew to a close on Sunday, Bhojpuri film stars brought glamour, music, and frenzy to the political arena, leading rallies and road shows across the state.
In Banka, BJP MP and singer Manoj Tiwari drew massive crowds as he campaigned for NDA candidate Ram Narayan Mandal. Standing atop an open vehicle, Tiwari sang his popular numbers — “Jiya Ho Bihar Ke Lala” and “Haan Hum Bihari Hain Ji, Thode Sanskari Hain Ji” — energising the crowd as he appealed for votes.
Meanwhile, chaos erupted for the second consecutive day at an event featuring Bhojpuri “Power Star” Pawan Singh in Motihari. Overexcited fans climbed the bamboo pandal for a glimpse of the actor-singer, causing it to collapse mid-event. Singh, who was addressing the gathering, escaped unhurt as party workers rushed to rescue those who fell. Police later used mild force to control the crowd after several people broke barricades in an attempt to reach the stage.
In Bettiah, Bhojpuri actress Amrapali Dubey led a road show through the Lauriya assembly constituency in support of BJP’s Vinay Bihari, a three-time MLA and former minister. Starting from Nar Singh Narayan Singh Studio in Machhargaon, the rally saw hundreds of supporters line the route.
The campaign trail also saw appearances from other Bhojpuri heavyweights. Ravi Kishan and Dinesh Lal Yadav “Nirahua” had earlier held rallies for Vinay Bihari, while Khesari Lal Yadav was set to campaign later in the day for Grand Alliance candidate Wasi Ahmed in Bettiah.
As the sun set on the campaign season, the sound of Bhojpuri songs and slogans filled the air, blending entertainment with electioneering — a trademark of Bihar’s vibrant poll culture.
