Patna: As Bihar’s election results poured in on Friday, one phrase echoed through the streets: “Bihar ka ek hi star, Nitish Kumar.” It came from JDU supporters, but its sentiment was shared across the state. Nitish Kumar, often referred to as the architect of “sushasan” (good governance) in Bihar, is on track to be sworn in as Chief Minister for a record tenth time.
Early predictions painted a different picture. Skepticism over his health, repeated political switches, and whispers of anti-incumbency all suggested that Nitish was facing one of the toughest battles of his career. Yet, the results told another story.
By Friday evening, JDU had nearly doubled its seat tally from the last election, winning around 85 seats — a stunning turnaround from 2020. For many, this proved once again that Nitish Kumar brings more than just votes — he brings loyalty. His supporters have continued to follow him, coalition after coalition, undeterred by political realignments.
What makes his political success even more remarkable is its reach. Unlike leaders whose support is limited to particular castes or regions, Nitish’s appeal spans across social groups. From EBCs to forward castes, from women to first-time voters, his base remains wide and committed.
NITISH UNPACKED: 5 LESSER-KNOWN FACTS
1. Not an MLA, but a CM
Nitish Kumar was last elected as an MLA in 1990. Since 2005, every time he became Chief Minister, he was an MLC in Bihar’s upper house.
2. Champion of Women’s Representation
In 2006, Bihar became the first state to reserve 50% of seats for women in panchayats. This was later expanded to include urban local bodies.
3. Cycle Scheme Innovator
Under his government in 2006, Class 9 girls received ₹2,000 to buy bicycles. This scheme significantly increased girls’ school attendance.
4. The No-Dowry Groom
While marrying Manju Kumari Sinha in 1973, he refused dowry, a bold move in small-town Bihar during the 1970s.
5. ‘Munna’ from Bakhtiarpur
His childhood nickname was “Munna,” and his old friends still call him by that name.
Despite criticism, Nitish’s record remains relatively clean. He has repeatedly emphasized governance over personality, and his administration is often credited with major improvements — better roads, dependable electricity, and greater law and order compared to the previous eras.
Even as allies like BJP leaned into harsher attacks on the opposition, Nitish kept his speeches focused and calm. He avoided sensationalism and stuck to his theme: Bihar’s development must not be derailed. In fact, while others debated his leadership strength, Nitish traveled extensively — holding 184 rallies — proving he’s still very much in charge.
In a post on X after the results, he thanked the voters and praised the unity of the NDA alliance. “I bow to all esteemed voters of the state. The NDA has achieved a massive majority with complete unity,” he said.
No matter how many times he’s been counted out, Nitish Kumar has a knack for bouncing back. Today, he stands poised to script his 10th chapter in Bihar’s political history — a milestone that even his critics can’t ignore.
