Patna, October 11, 2025 – Bhojpuri singer and actor Pawan Singh, who recently rejoined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has stated he does not wish to contest the upcoming Bihar elections, referring to himself as a "true soldier" of the party. This announcement comes after a tumultuous period in his relationship with the BJP, marked by controversies, expulsion, and a return to the party fold.
Singh's political journey has been eventful. Prior to this, the BJP had nominated Singh as their candidate for the Asansol Lok Sabha constituency in West Bengal in 2024. However, this decision was met with criticism due to some of his songs and music videos being labeled as objectifying women. Facing backlash, Singh withdrew his candidature, citing personal reasons. Subsequently, he was expelled from the BJP for contesting the Lok Sabha election as an independent candidate from Karakat in Bihar, opposing the party's official nominee, Upendra Kushwaha.
In a surprising turn of events, Pawan Singh recently rejoined the BJP in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP President J.P. Nadda, and BJP Bihar in-charge Vinod Tawde, along with his former Karakat opponent, Upendra Kushwaha. This reconciliation is seen as part of the NDA's efforts to consolidate Rajput and Koeri votes ahead of the Bihar elections, with Rajputs historically being core BJP supporters.
Singh's decision to contest as an independent in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections is believed to have divided the Rajput votes, contributing to the NDA candidate Kushwaha's loss in Karakat. The BJP is counting on Singh's influence in the Shahabad region, which comprises four districts – Bhojpur, Buxar, Kaimur, and Rohtas – and 22 Assembly seats, where there is a high concentration of upper-caste Rajput votes.
Sources suggest that Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, recently appointed as the BJP's Bihar election in-charge, played a key role in facilitating Pawan Singh's return to the party. It is speculated that Singh may receive a ticket from Arrah, with the BJP anticipating that the caste combination with Kushwahas will help them regain ground in the Shahabad region with its 22 seats.
Pawan Singh's career extends beyond politics. He is a well-known figure in the Bhojpuri film industry as a playback singer, actor, and music composer. He has also contributed to Hindi films, including the song "Aayi Nai" from "Stree 2," a collaboration with Arijit Singh. Singh's foray into politics began ahead of the 2024 Indian general election. Despite not winning the election, he established himself as a recognizable political figure in Bihar. On October 1, 2025, he rejoined the BJP.
