Who Is Maithili Thakur? 25YO Folk Singer Shaking Up Bihar's Politics

Maithili Thakur, a folk singer and Bihar assembly election candidate, has emerged as one of India’s most inspiring young women, blending cultural excellence with civic engagement. Since joining politics with the Bharatiya Janata Party on October 14, 2025, she has signalled an intent to transform her influence into social and political impact. She is contesting from the Alinagar constituency in Darbhanga for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections. 

Her statement that “I don’t believe joining politics is just about power; it’s about giving back to the soil that nurtured you” reflects a service-oriented vision that contrasts with the traditionally male-dominated political narrative.

Leadership & Arts

Born on July 25, 2000, in Benipatti of Bihar's Madhubani district, Maithili grew up in a family deeply rooted in the Maithili musical tradition. She learned Hindustani classical and folk music from her father, Ramesh Thakur, and her grandfather.

Alongside her siblings, Maithili honed her skills from a very young age, performing at local events and religious gatherings. Despite the challenges that young women often face in pursuing careers in the arts in smaller towns, her family supported her ambition, allowing her talent to flourish on both national and digital platforms.

Her rise to national prominence came through reality shows such as Indian Idol Junior and Rising Star India, where she captivated audiences with her mastery of classical and folk music. Beyond entertainment, her performances became a celebration of Mithila culture, a strong statement of regional identity in a patriarchal society where women’s cultural contributions are often undervalued.

In 2024, Maithili's efforts were formally recognised when she received the Cultural Ambassador of the Year Award at the inaugural National Creators Award, presented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This accolade not only acknowledged her musical talent but also her role as a young woman elevating India’s cultural heritage on national and global stages.

Maithili’s journey underscores several critical feminist themes. First, it highlights the importance of family and community support in enabling women’s ambitions. Second, her public visibility demonstrates how women can simultaneously claim leadership in cultural and political spheres, thereby breaking down gendered barriers. Third, her blend of music, regional pride, and political engagement exemplifies the modern feminist ideal: women asserting agency, shaping identity, and creating social change while honouring their roots.

While challenges lie ahead, such as navigating electoral politics in a state with entrenched patriarchal norms and caste-based dynamics.

Maithili Thakur represents a new archetype of female leadership in India: rooted, culturally grounded, and socially conscious.

Her trajectory serves as an inspiration not only to young women in Bihar but also across the country, demonstrating that artistic achievement and political engagement are complementary tools for empowerment.

As Bihar heads toward the 2025 Assembly elections, Maithili’s story is a reminder that feminism is not only about individual success; it is about transforming societal expectations and expanding the arenas where women’s voices are heard and valued.

Views expressed by the author are their own.