Patna buzzed with tributes on Saturday as Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and his cabinet colleagues gathered to commemorate the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna recipient and former Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur, fondly remembered as Jan Nayak. The event underscored Thakur’s enduring legacy as a champion of the marginalized.
Minister Shrawan Kumar, speaking at the ceremony, emphasized how the current government under Nitish Kumar is steadfastly following the path laid out by Thakur. ‘He came from a humble background without even electricity at home, yet he illuminated millions of such homes,’ Kumar remarked, highlighting the fulfillment of Thakur’s vision through initiatives like rural electrification.
Ram Kirpal Yadav, who had the privilege of working closely with Thakur, shared personal anecdotes. ‘If we imbibe even a fraction of his virtues on this day, it would be our greatest fortune,’ he said. Yadav portrayed Thakur as an irreplaceable icon of honesty, integrity, and relentless struggle, whose contributions to society remain unmatched.
The celebrations extended across Bihar, with events in every district reflecting the widespread reverence for Thakur. Minister Santosh Kumar Suman urged the youth to draw inspiration from Thakur’s groundbreaking work for the poor and backward classes, which set a benchmark in Bihar’s political landscape.
Former minister Sumit Kumar Singh described Thakur as the pioneer of social justice, noting that his party continues the tradition of honoring him annually. These gatherings not only pay homage but also reaffirm the commitment to his ideals of equity and empowerment, ensuring his influence shapes Bihar’s future.