EP 197 - From Bollywood to Union Minister: The Journey of Chirag Paswan

In 2020, when his father Ram Vilas Paswan passed away, Chirag Paswan faced the biggest challenge of his political career. His uncle took charge of the party, and many thought Chirag's political journey was over. Sidelined by other leaders in his party, he was written off by many. But Chirag Paswan defied the odds. In 2021, he formed the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) and now he has secured victory in all five seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections.

Today, Chirag Paswan holds the same Food Processing Industries ministry that his father once looked after under the Modi government. Chirag calls himself "Modi's Hanuman" and is seen as the future of Bihar politics. The BJP also views him as a ''valuable asset''.

In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Chirag Paswan discusses the importance of Bihari identity and the need to rise above caste lines for a progressive Bihar. He also recalls the tough time when he lost his father and how he navigated his personal and political life.

Chirag also talks about his vision for Bihar, one of India's poorest states. He delves into the nepotism debate and explains why his Bollywood debut failed. Chirag also discusses his friendship with Kangana, who is also a member of Parliament in the 18th Lok Sabha.

(0:00) Introduction

(1:07) Chirag Paswan on Religion

(3:17) The Split in LJP

(7:35) NDA - LJP Alliance in 2014

(11:37) 2024 LS Polls Victory

(14:42) Dalit Politics in Bihar

(17:14) Caste Politics in Bihar

(20:33) Bihar First, Bihari First

(27:08) Bihar Infrastructure Mess

(30:20) Vidhan Sabha Polls in Bihar

(34:29) First 100 Days Plan

(39:11) Pride in Being a Bihari

(40:56) Nepotism Debate

(44:18) Chirag & Tejashwi Spat

(48:01) Why Tejashwi Failed

(51:20) Agnipath Scheme

(54:55) NDA & Its Allies

(56:29) Chirag & Kangana's Friendship

(59:04) Snap Reaction Segment