Prashant Kishor, once known as the brain behind India’s biggest election victories, is now walking a completely different path — quite literally. After years of working as a top political strategist, he has stepped into the world of active politics with a strong focus on changing Bihar.
But who is he? And why is his name being discussed so widely in the state and beyond?
Let’s explore his journey from a behind-the-scenes expert to a leader walking with the people.
Early Life and Career
Prashant Kishor was born in 1977 in the Rohtas district of Bihar. His father was a doctor in the Bihar government, and Kishor grew up in a middle-class household.
He studied science and later worked with international organizations, including the United Nations, where he focused on public health and development planning. His experience in data, policy, and people-centric work shaped his understanding of governance deeply — even before stepping into Indian politics.
The Rise of a Political Strategist
In 2014, Prashant Kishor became a household name when he helped Narendra Modi and the BJP win the Lok Sabha elections. His data-driven, technology-based, and focused campaigning style brought a new kind of energy to Indian elections.
After that, he worked with several top leaders across the country:
- Nitish Kumar (Bihar)
- Jagan Mohan Reddy (Andhra Pradesh)
- Amarinder Singh (Punjab)
- Arvind Kejriwal (Delhi)
- Mamata Banerjee (West Bengal)
He became the go-to strategist for many chief ministers and national leaders. He also founded I-PAC (Indian Political Action Committee) to run professional campaigns backed by research and analytics.
Why He Left Political Consulting
Despite all his success, Kishor became uncomfortable with the way politics worked. Winning elections was not enough — real change was still missing.
In 2022, he made a bold decision:
He left political consulting and announced a new mission called Jan Suraaj — which means “Good Governance by the People.”
His goal was clear:
“I don’t want to just change the government. I want to change the system.”
5,000 KM Padyatra Across Bihar
To truly understand the problems of Bihar, Kishor started a Padyatra (foot march) in October 2022 from Sitab Diara, the birthplace of Jayaprakash Narayan.
Over the next two years, he:
- Walked 5,000+ kilometers
- Visited 15,000+ villages
- Reached 220+ blocks
- Met lakhs of people personally
He listened to people from all walks of life — farmers, students, women, unemployed youth, teachers, and traders. His padyatra was not a campaign — it was an effort to learn, understand, and collect people’s ideas for change.
Launch of Jan Suraaj Party
In October 2024, after two years of groundwork, Prashant Kishor launched the Jan Suraaj Party. But unlike other parties, it was built from the bottom up — by the people, not by big leaders or money power.
Jan Suraaj promises a clean, honest, and development-focused alternative to traditional politics.
The 5 Big Promises of Jan Suraaj
Prashant Kishor’s party is based on 5 key goals for Bihar’s progress:
- Reform the education system – Better schools, trained teachers, and real learning
- End the liquor ban – Replace it with smart regulation and better health awareness
- Support women entrepreneurs – Loans, training, and opportunities for small businesses
- Pension for the elderly – Dignity and support for senior citizens
- Solve land record issues – End disputes and bring transparency in property ownership
What Makes Prashant Kishor Different?
Prashant Kishor is not a traditional politician. Here’s what sets him apart:
- He doesn’t belong to any political family
- He refuses to give tickets to criminals or corrupt people
- He walked with people for two years, instead of doing rallies
- He focuses on data, facts, and real solutions
- He speaks less, listens more
His approach is refreshing for many young voters and people tired of old-style politics.
Public Response and Early Results
In recent local elections, Jan Suraaj candidates did not win, but some received up to 10% votes, which is impressive for a new party with no big alliances.
This shows that people are paying attention, especially in rural areas and among first-time voters.
What’s Next for Prashant Kishor?
All eyes are now on the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025.
Prashant Kishor has said that Jan Suraaj will contest all 243 seats — with clean and qualified candidates.
Whether or not his party wins big, one thing is clear:
He has already changed the way politics is being done in Bihar.
Conclusion: A New Kind of Leader for a New Bihar
Prashant Kishor planned the victories of India’s top leaders. Now, he is building his own path — one that starts from the ground and leads upward.
He is not here to play politics.
He is here to rebuild public trust, restore good governance, and prove that a new Bihar is possible.
From a strategist in the shadows to a leader in the streets —
Prashant Kishor’s journey is bold, inspiring, and just getting started.
