As evening descended on Tuesday in Patna, the BJP’s state headquarters on Veerchand Patel Road was illuminated with vibrant lights and decorations. The building was adorned with rope lights, while a large lotus shape made of red LEDs welcomed attendees at the entrance. White and orange balloons floated against the main gate, which was covered with artificial foliage in shades of orange and green. Floral decorations embellished the primary structure.
The occasion marks the celebration of the imminent swearing-in of Bihar’s first Chief Minister from the BJP. Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary is set to succeed Nitish Kumar after being elected as the leader of the BJP Legislature Party on the same day.
BJP supporters from various districts in Bihar gathered both inside and outside the party office. Some congregated in the courtyard, while others formed small groups to share greetings and chant slogans such as “Jai Jai Siya Ram,” “Har Har Mahadev,” and “Jai Bihar, Jai Samrat.” New arrivals frequently brought large party flags, and firecrackers were set off at the entrance following the announcement of Choudhary’s election.
Just before 7 PM, state BJP president Sanjay Saraogi and Health Minister Mangal Pandey were welcomed with applause upon their arrival. They greeted each other and exchanged congratulations in the courtyard as more MLAs continued to arrive throughout the evening, with LED hearts and stars illuminating the backdrop.
However, some party leaders noted that the turnout, although spirited, was not as large as anticipated. “Just wait for the oath tomorrow; that’s when you will see the real crowd,” a party worker commented to another.
Under the festive lights, groups discussed the upcoming oath-taking ceremony. “I doubt Modi ji will attend, but I’m optimistic that Amit Shah will definitely be present,” one party member expressed.
Outside the office, large hoardings featured images of Samrat Choudhary alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP national president Nitin Nabin, proclaiming, “Ang Pradesh ke sapoot, Bihar ke laal, Yashashvi Samrat Choudhary ko Bihar ka mukhya sevak banne ki hardik badhai awam shubhkamnaen” (Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the proud son of Ang Pradesh and the pride of Bihar, Yashasvi Samrat Choudhary, on becoming the Chief Servant of Bihar).
Himanshu Harsh serves as a Correspondent for The Indian Express, currently spearheading on-the-ground reporting in Bihar. With a background in the intricate dynamics of the National Capital Region, he specializes in the critical areas of law, crime, and civic governance.
Academic Background and Professional Credentials
Himanshu is an alumnus of the esteemed Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) in Delhi, bringing a strong academic foundation to his investigative reporting. His approach is characterized by a grassroots perspective, notably highlighted during his extensive coverage of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where he analyzed evolving political dynamics and public sentiment.
Specialization Areas
Himanshu’s diverse portfolio enables him to cover a wide range of industries and social issues:
- Civic & Legal Affairs: Extensive experience in the Delhi reporting scene, focusing on policy execution and judicial effects.
- Automotive Industry: Technical expertise in reporting on India’s changing transportation and automotive sectors.
- Social Issues & Human Interest: Beyond hard news, he delves into the evolving social fabric of India’s urban and rural areas, offering a human-centered view of systemic challenges.
Personal Interests and Digital Engagement
In his spare time, Himanshu’s keen interest in technology and gaming enhances his understanding of digital trends and the contemporary information economy. A skilled DJ with a love for music, his varied personal interests contribute to a well-rounded perspective that resonates across both traditional and digital media landscapes.
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