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Join NowBihar legends: Bihar, a land steeped in ancient history and profound culture, has long been a cradle of genius, birthing some of the most inspiring, talented, and respected figures in India’s story. These are not just names on a list; they are titans who have revolutionized everything from politics and cinema to music and education. Their journeys, often starting from the most humble beginnings, are powerful sagas of struggle, resilience, and extraordinary achievement that continue to ignite inspiration in millions across India and the globe.
Prepare to be captivated by the incredible life stories of the top 15 most famous people from Bihar, whose influence echoes through the corridors of power, the silver screens of Bollywood, and the very heart of modern India.
1. Dr. Rajendra Prasad: The Architect of a Republic
From the unassuming town of Siwan, Bihar, rose a man who would become the first President of a newly independent India. Dr. Rajendra Prasad was more than a political leader; he was a moral compass for the nation. A key figure in the freedom struggle, his life was a masterclass in honesty, intellect, and profound simplicity. Even after ascending to the highest office in the land, he lived a life unburdened by ego, focusing solely on the monumental task of nation-building. His critical role in drafting India’s Constitution laid the democratic bedrock for generations to come. As a recipient of the Bharat Ratna, Dr. Prasad’s legacy as a true icon of service and integrity remains untouchable.
2. Ustad Bismillah Khan: The Soul of the Shehnai
In Dumraon, Bihar, the air was once filled with the divine melodies of a man who would introduce the soul of the shehnai to the world. Ustad Bismillah Khan was a musical messiah who elevated a traditional folk instrument to the global stage. His haunting performance at the Red Fort on India’s Independence Day in 1947 became the soundtrack to a nation’s freedom. A symbol of religious unity and artistic devotion, he was awarded the Bharat Ratna, but his greatest achievement was proving that music is a language that transcends all borders and brings humanity closer.
3. Manoj Bajpayee: The Master of Method
Emerging from a small village in West Champaran, Manoj Bajpayee is an actor who embodies the sheer force of raw talent and perseverance. He is celebrated for his intense, powerful, and deeply human portrayals in iconic films like Satya and Gangs of Wasseypur, and the blockbuster web series The Family Man. In an industry often dominated by glamour, Bajpayee carved his own path through sheer hard work and a dedication to realistic, impactful cinema. This National Film Award winner remains a humble titan of the craft, inspiring countless outsiders to dream big.
4. Pankaj Tripathi: The Unconventional Superstar
With a calm demeanor and an unmatched ability for natural acting, Pankaj Tripathi has quietly become one of India’s most beloved actors. Hailing from Gopalganj, his journey is a script in itself—a farmer’s son who worked as a hotel cook while chasing his acting dreams. Today, his presence in films like Newton and the cult series Mirzapur is a guarantee of brilliance. Pankaj Tripathi’s inspiring rise is a powerful reminder that authenticity and talent will always find their way to the top.
5. Shatrughan Sinha: The “Shotgun” of Bollywood and Politics
Shatrughan Sinha, the legendary actor and fiery politician from Patna, is a personality who can’t be ignored. Known for his bold style and powerful dialogue delivery, he earned the nickname “Shotgun” and became a bona fide superstar in the 1970s. But his ambition didn’t stop at cinema. He transitioned seamlessly into politics, serving as a Member of Parliament and a Union Minister, always known for his fearless and outspoken nature. He remains a respected figure in both entertainment and public life.
6. Sushant Singh Rajput: The Star Who Dreamed of the Stars
A brilliant and curious mind from Patna, Sushant Singh Rajput won hearts first on television and then on the big screen. His poignant portrayal of M.S. Dhoni cemented his place as a leading star. More than an actor, he was a polymath with a deep passion for astrophysics, science, and philosophy. Though his journey was tragically cut short, his boundless energy, incredible talent, and inspiring dreams continue to live on, reminding us of the star that shone so brightly.
7. Lalu Prasad Yadav: The Unforgettable Force of Bihar Politics
A towering and charismatic figure from Gopalganj, Lalu Prasad Yadav fundamentally changed the political landscape of Bihar. As a former Chief Minister and Railway Minister, his unique oratory style and deep connection with the rural masses made him a political phenomenon. He championed the cause of social justice, bringing the issues of backward classes to the national forefront. Despite facing legal controversies, his impact and influence on Indian politics are undeniable and historic.
8. Nitish Kumar: The “Sushasan Babu” of Bihar
Known as “Sushasan Babu” (Mr. Good Governance), Nitish Kumar is a political giant who has served as Bihar’s Chief Minister multiple times. He is widely credited with transforming Bihar’s image in the 21st century by focusing on improving law and order, infrastructure like roads and electricity, and groundbreaking social schemes like providing free cycles for schoolgirls. Born in Bakhtiyarpur, his long tenure is marked by a legacy of development and clean governance.
9. Prashant Kishor: The Kingmaker Behind the Throne
From the Rohtas district of Bihar comes a man who operates in the highest echelons of power without ever seeking it for himself. Prashant Kishor is the celebrated political strategist who has designed winning election campaigns for prime ministers and chief ministers across India. Recently, he has turned his focus back to his home state, launching the “Jan Suraaj” movement, a grassroots campaign aimed at bringing clean and effective leadership to Bihar and inspiring a new generation to enter politics.
10. Khesari Lal Yadav: The Bhojpuri Phenomenon
The story of Khesari Lal Yadav is a true rags-to-riches saga. Born into extreme poverty in Chhapra, he once sold litti-chokha to make ends meet. Today, he is one of the biggest superstars in the Bhojpuri film and music industry. With a massive fan following across the world, his journey of struggle and triumph has made him a symbol of hope and success for millions.
11. Prakash Jha: The Filmmaker with a Conscience
Hailing from West Champaran, Prakash Jha is a director who wields his camera as a tool for social commentary. His hard-hitting films like Gangaajal, Raajneeti, and Apaharan explore the dark underbelly of politics, crime, and social injustice in the Indian heartland. Unafraid to tell real stories and ask uncomfortable questions, Jha is a respected voice known for his impactful and realistic storytelling.
12. Ravish Kumar: The Fearless Voice of Journalism
From Motihari, the land of Gandhi’s first Satyagraha, comes a journalist who speaks truth to power. Ravish Kumar, the acclaimed former NDTV anchor, is revered for his people-focused journalism that courageously tackles issues like unemployment and eroding democratic values. A recipient of the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award, often called Asia’s Nobel Prize, Ravish is an icon of journalistic integrity and an inspiration for all who believe in the power of an honest voice.
13. Khan Sir: The Educational Rockstar
In the age of digital learning, one teacher from Patna has become a national sensation. Khan Sir, through his Khan GS Research Centre, has revolutionized how millions of students prepare for competitive government exams. His unique, humorous, and incredibly simple way of explaining complex topics in Hindi has earned him a cult following on YouTube. He is not just a teacher; he is a hero and a role model for the youth of India.
14. Anand Kumar: The Guru of Super 30
The world knows his story through the hit Bollywood film Super 30, but the real work of Anand Kumar is even more inspiring. The founder of the Super 30 program in Patna, he has provided free, world-class coaching to hundreds of students from impoverished backgrounds, helping them crack the incredibly tough IIT-JEE entrance exam. Anand Kumar’s selfless dedication to educational equality proves that with the right opportunity, brilliance can emerge from anywhere.
15. Manoj Tiwari: The Voice of Bhojpuri Culture
From the Kaimur district, Manoj Tiwari rose to fame as a top Bhojpuri singer and actor, becoming a cultural icon for millions. He successfully leveraged his immense popularity to build a prominent career in national politics, serving as a Member of Parliament for the BJP. He remains a powerful voice, effectively bridging the gap between Bihari culture and the national political stage.
