Cultural motifs shape parties’ electoral plans

In the floodplains of north Bihar, where mango orchards shade winding village lanes and ancient ponds mirror the skies, four simple symbols have quietly turned into political capital: Paag (the ceremonial Mithila turban), Maachh (fish), Makhana (fox nuts), and Paan (betel).

- Sanjeev K Jha

In the upcoming assembly elections, these emblems of Mithilanchal life are at the centre of campaign speeches, street rallies and social media in contests across 14 constituencies of Darbhanga and Madhubani.

Once mere cultural motifs, these symbols now shape political strategies. Candidates who mishandle them risk appearing like outsiders. Those who embrace them credibly can tap into emotional loyalties that cut across caste lines.

Paag and the politics of belonging

Paag, traditionally worn during rituals, weddings and convocations, represents dignity, honour and identity. Politicians wear it to signal respect for Mithila. Local communities see it as a badge of belonging.

This symbolism turned combustible after a controversy involving Maithili Thakur, the BJP nominee from Alinagar.

A short video showing Thakur placing Makhana inside a Paag and eating from it went viral. Cultural groups accused her of insulting a sacred symbol. Rivals cast her as someone alien to Maithil traditions.

“For a whole day and even the next, instead of seeking an apology, she and her supporters indulged in whataboutery and excuses. On one hand, she calls herself the pride of Mithila, and on the other, she can’t even admit her mistake. She eventually apologised, but with arrogance,” said Anup Kumar of Benipatti.

“Paag is not a cap you wear for a selfie,” remarked Dr Ghanshyam Jha, a retired civil surgeon from Darbhanga. “It is an integral part of Mithila’s cultural and religious life. The history of the Paag dates to the pre-Vidyapati (12th century) period. It has its own code — how to wear it, when to wear it, who should wear it, and how to hold it.”

The BJP’s carefully choreographed cultural messaging was thrown off balance, underscoring how potent these symbols remain.

Maithili Thakur did not respond to texts and calls from HT for a comment.

Makhana as livelihood and identity