Shatrughan Kumar Yadav, popularly known as Khesari Lal Yadav, is currently contesting his first-ever election as a Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) candidate from Chapra in Bihar’s Saran district.
But long before he stepped into the political world, Khesari Lal was a prominent Bhojpuri actor, singer, dancer and model. Let’s delve deep into his journey from a modest family to a Bhojpuri superstar and now a politician.
Born on March 15, 1986, in Bihar’s Chapra district, Khesari’s father, Mangaru Lal Yadav, sold chana in the morning and worked as a security guard at night to make ends meet.
While his parents worked in Delhi, Khesari grew up in Chapra with his six siblings and uncle. He studied in a government school, but as he was not inclined towards academics, he left education after Class 10.
Later, he started grazing cattle and selling milk to support his family. He also pursued acting after quitting school.
He began his career as a theatre artist in the late ’90s. During this time, he used to sing in Ramayana and Mahabharata plays, mastering Bhojpuri folk dance Launda Naach.
His success as a Bhojpuri singer brought him to Mumbai to chase bigger dreams. Khesari Lal Yadav made his acting debut with the 2012 Bhojpuri film Sajan Chale Sasural. He has since worked in over 100 Bhojpuri and Bollywood movies, and recorded over 5000 songs.
His notable films include Nagin, Ae Balma Biharwala, Chapra Express, Dabang Sarkar, Coolie No. 1, and others. He has also appeared on the controversial reality TV show Bigg Boss, enhancing his popularity beyond Bhojpuri cinema.
After years of hard work, his overall net worth now stands at a staggering Rs 24.81 crore. Among his declared possessions are gold jewellery worth Rs 35 lakh, a Land Rover Defender, which has an estimated market value of Rs 3 crore.
In October 2025, Khesari Lal Yadav was declared as the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) candidate from Chapra for the 2025 Bihar Legislative Assembly election. His candidature came as a surprise as initially his wife was expected to contest.
The Chapra seat is witnessing a strong competition between Kesari Lal Yadav (RJD) and Chhoti Kumari (BJP), according to most exit poll results.
It remains to be seen if Khesari’s popularity as a Bhojpuri film and music superstar and focus on local development, youth employment, and infrastructure issues will give him visibility and win in Bihar 2025 Election.
