More than a decade ago, Chirag Paswan tried to build a life far away from the world of rallies, speeches and party meetings. He stepped into films, took a chance on a completely different career and appeared on the big screen with hopes that had nothing to do with politics. That phase did not last long but it became an important chapter in his story. Today, as his name returns repeatedly during Bihar assembly elections, people often look back at how unusual his journey has been and how many paths he travelled before finding his place in public life.
Chirag was born on October 31, 1982, to Ram Vilas Paswan, who was one of India’s most respected Dalit leaders and the founder of the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP). Even though he grew up in a political family, Chirag’s first steps were not towards politics. He completed his schooling through the National Institute of Open Schooling in Delhi and later joined a B.Tech course in Computer Engineering at the Institute of Engineering and Technology in Jhansi.
During his third semester, he chose to drop out. At that point, he wanted to explore something creative. This decision took him towards acting, a field that was completely different from the one his father was known for.
In 2011, he made his film debut with Miley Naa Miley Hum opposite Kangana Ranaut. The film did not perform well and Chirag often mentioned that he understood what a bad film looked like because he had acted in one. His acting career stopped almost as soon as it began but the experience stayed with him.
One thing that continued from that period was his personal bond with Kangana Ranaut and both now serve as Members of Parliament. Over the years, he was also seen at gatherings where TV personalities like Vishal Singh and reality-show winner Prince Narula were present.
In 2012, his life began to shift again. Chirag joined LJP following the path his father had built. His entry into politics was soon followed by success. In 2014, he won the Jamui Lok Sabha seat that marked his first major victory.
By 2019, he had become the national president of the LJP. This role brought pressure especially when the party faced internal disagreements. He managed to hold his ground and retain his parliamentary seat.
The most challenging period came after the death of Ram Vilas Paswan in 2020. A dispute over leadership created a split within the party. Chirag’s uncle, Pashupati Kumar Paras, became the LJP parliamentary leader with the support of several MPs.
Chirag responded by forming the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas). In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, his party won all five seats it contested. Soon after, he joined the Union Cabinet as the Minister for Food Processing Industries in the Modi 3.0 government, a ministry once held by his father.
In the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, Chirag’s role has drawn even more attention. His party is contesting 29 seats and is considered the largest junior partner within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). LJP(RV) may be crucial if NDA has to return to power with Chirag seen as a possible kingmaker.
Chirag has spoken confidently about the NDA’s prospects. He has often highlighted the public’s trust in the double-engine government model and the work done by party supporters on the ground. His slogan “Bihar first, Bihari first” has been repeated throughout the campaign .
Some surveys have mentioned him as the third option for the chief minister’s post after Tejashwi Yadav and Nitish Kumar. Despite this, he has not positioned himself as a contender for the role.
Chirag Paswan’s journey continues to draw attention as the state watches how the Bihar election results unfold.
