KKN Gurugram Desk | The 78th birthday of Lalu Prasad Yadav, the supremo of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and a prominent political figure in Bihar, is being celebrated with grandeur today. This occasion has been designated as Social Justice and Harmony Day by the RJD, marking a significant event not only for Lalu’s supporters but also as a crucial political moment ahead of the 2025 Bihar Legislative Assembly elections. It serves as a platform to unite the party’s workers and convey strong political messages. Prior to the public celebrations, a special cake-cutting ceremony took place at Rabri Devi’s residence in Patna, where Lalu Yadav was joined by his family and close associates.

A Grand Celebration of Lalu Yadav’s 78th Birthday

On June 11, 2025, Lalu Yadav’s 78th birthday has become a remarkable occasion for the RJD. In a highly symbolic gesture, Lalu cut a 78-pound cake at his residence in Patna, surrounded by his family, including his elder daughter Misa Bharti and his grandchildren. The joyful moment was shared with his loved ones, as Lalu distributed pieces of cake among the attendees, making the celebration both personal and political.

The images of Lalu cutting the cake with his family have quickly spread across social media, with his followers expressing their love and admiration. The event was filled with warmth and positivity, reflecting Lalu Yadav’s legacy of social justice and political influence. As one of the most charismatic leaders in Bihar’s political history, Lalu’s birthday celebrations have become an occasion for reflection on his long-lasting contributions to both the state and the nation.

Lalu Yadav’s Legacy: A Political Icon

Born in 1948 in Gopalganj’s Phulwaria village, Lalu Prasad Yadav rose from humble beginnings to become a household name in Indian politics. His journey began in 1977 when he was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP). However, it was his tenure as the Chief Minister of Bihar from 1990 to 1997 and later as the Railway Minister from 2004 to 2009 that solidified his position as a key figure in Indian politics. His efforts to empower marginalized communities and his ability to connect with the common people earned him national recognition.

One of Lalu’s most significant political moves was in 1990 when he disrupted L.K. Advani’s Rath Yatra, a landmark event that marked the rise of Hindu nationalism. By opposing the yatra, Lalu not only made a bold statement on social justice but also established himself as a leader of the Muslim-Yadav (MY) alliance, which played a pivotal role in Bihar’s political landscape.

RJD’s Celebrations and the Focus on Social Justice

The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has decided to commemorate Lalu Yadav’s 78th birthday in a grand manner across Bihar’s 38 districts. The celebrations are not only about cake-cutting and well-wishes but are also focused on the party’s core themes of social justice, empowerment of backward classes, and social harmony. As part of the occasion, the RJD is organizing various community events such as book distributions for poor children at the party’s office in Patna. These initiatives align with Lalu’s lifelong commitment to the upliftment of marginalized groups.

In addition to the celebrations, the RJD launched the ‘Lalu Sandesh’ campaign, where his historic speeches and recent statements are being shared across social media platforms. The campaign aims to spread Lalu’s vision of social justice and inclusive development, ensuring his political messages reach a broader audience. This initiative also serves to energize the party workers ahead of the crucial 2025 Bihar elections, where RJD hopes to consolidate its position as a major political force in the state.

Demand for Bharat Ratna for Lalu Yadav

One of the key political discussions surrounding Lalu Yadav’s birthday this year has been the demand for the Bharat Ratna award. The RJD party, along with many of Lalu’s supporters, has strongly advocated for the Bharat Ratna for Lalu, emphasizing his significant contributions to social justice, the empowerment of backward communities, and the betterment of the underprivileged. Party leaders argue that Lalu’s work in transforming Bihar and his efforts to uplift marginalized communities deserve to be recognized by the nation’s highest civilian honor.

Lalu’s role in strengthening the Muslim-Yadav (MY) alliance and giving political power to the backward classes is viewed by many as a landmark achievement in the fight for social justice in India. His leadership in Bihar, coupled with his unwavering stance on social equality, has earned him a special place in Indian politics.

Lalu Yadav’s Birthday Celebrations and the Political Context

This year’s birthday celebrations for Lalu Yadav are particularly significant as they come just before the 2025 Bihar Legislative Assembly elections, a pivotal political event for the RJD. The celebrations have provided an excellent opportunity for the party to unite its workers, rally support, and send a strong political message ahead of the elections. The RJD’s focus on social justice and harmony in its celebrations aligns with its campaign goals, emphasizing its commitment to the ideals that Lalu has championed throughout his career.

In addition to the large-scale celebrations, Lalu’s birthday has also been marked by discussions on his legacy, particularly his contributions to the empowerment of backward classes and his efforts to establish social justice. The RJD’s leadership continues to highlight his political influence, positioning him as a key figure in the state’s political landscape.

Lalu Yadav’s Birthday: A Family Affair

At his residence, Lalu Yadav was seen joyfully celebrating his birthday with his family. The cake-cutting ceremony included not just political leaders and supporters, but also Lalu’s close family members, such as his wife, Rabri Devi, and their children, including his eldest daughter Misa Bharti. The celebration, though political in nature, also showcased a personal side of Lalu, as he enjoyed the moment with his loved ones and thanked everyone present for their support.

Interestingly, Tej Pratap Yadav, Lalu’s son, was notably absent from the birthday celebrations. This sparked curiosity among many, especially after Tej Pratap’s recent expulsion from the party for six years. However, Tej Pratap shared a post on X (formerly Twitter) on June 10, 2025, the day before his father’s birthday, where he expressed his feelings, saying, “The deeper the darkness, the closer the dawn.” This statement was widely interpreted as a reflection on his current situation and relationship with his family.

Lalu Yadav’s Continued Influence on Bihar Politics

Lalu Yadav’s political journey is far from over. Despite facing challenges, including legal battles and health issues, Lalu continues to be an influential figure in Bihar politics. His ability to mobilize the masses, particularly the backward classes, and his focus on social justice remain key elements of his political ideology.

As the RJD prepares for the 2025 Bihar elections, Lalu’s influence will continue to be felt across the state. His leadership, vision for social equality, and commitment to empowering marginalized communities will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Bihar politics.

Lalu Yadav’s 78th birthday celebrations not only honor his remarkable political journey but also serve as a reminder of his enduring impact on the politics of Bihar and India. Through his leadership in the RJD, his advocacy for social justice, and his relentless pursuit of empowerment for backward classes, Lalu has carved out a legacy that continues to influence the political landscape. As the 2025 Bihar elections approach, the RJD is poised to capitalize on Lalu’s legacy, rallying its workers and supporters for the challenges ahead.