ThePrint WritingsOnTheWall: 2015 Writings on Bihar walls:First stirrings of aspiration beyond caste, identity & bijli-sadak-pani
Oct 6, 2025
As Bihar gears up for elections, insights from 2015 reveal a shift in aspirations beyond caste and basic needs. Nitish Kumar’s influence on Bihar politics takes center stage alongside the rise of private education. Discover how families pursue better futures despite challenges, including notorious criminal enterprises selling degrees. The podcast highlights the transformation of education into the primary public demand, redefining the state's goals and potential. Shekhar Gupta captures the essence of a state ready to invest in a brighter, educated future.
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Election As Political Test
- Bihar's election will test BJP's strength and Nitish Kumar's role as the state's political 'engine'.
- The outcome could reshape power dynamics in the Hindi heartland and boost opposition momentum.
Long Term Reporting From Bihar
- Shekhar Gupta has written seven "Writings on the Wall" pieces from Bihar across elections since 2005.
- He uses them to trace a long-term story of change in the state.
Reputation Vs Reality
- Early 2005 Bihar carried a reputation as a basket case but had surprising functional pockets.
- Gupta notes citizens and visitors often find conditions "less worse" than expected.