Before Maithili Thakur became a trending name in politics or social media, Maithili Thakur was already a voice millions turned to for comfort, devotion, and joy.
The 25-year-old singer from Benipatti, Madhubani, has done what few artists her age can claim — she’s made ancient Indian folk music cool again.
Maithili has become the face of Mithila's musical soul thanks to her calming voice and unwavering humility. She brings the sounds of Hindi, Bhojpuri, and Maithili folk traditions from rural Bihar to living rooms all over the world.
Her journey from a small-town music student to an international internet sensation isn't one of sudden celebrity; rather, it's one of quiet perseverance, strong roots, and unadulterated creativity.
Maithili, who was born on July 25, 2000, was raised in a household where music was not only taught but also experienced. She was first exposed to Hindustani classical music at a young age by her father, a classical singer and educator. She had a voice that was both technically proficient and emotionally unfiltered, which was an obvious talent.
She first caught the nation’s attention as a contestant on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Little Champs and later on Indian Idol Junior. But it was Rising Star (2017) that truly changed everything.
She was the first finalist on the show and lost the title by just two votes, but she sang Om Namah Shivaya with effortless grace. Her transition from a promising contestant to a household name began when her calm yet impactful performance went viral.
From TV to the Digital Platform
Maithili didn't fade into the background after Rising Star. Rather, she started sharing her music online with her brothers, Rishav (tabla) and Ayachi (vocals). They only used a harmonium, a tabla, and Maithili's beautiful voice to record their YouTube videos, which went viral right away.
By working together, they brought classical compositions, bhajans, and old folk songs back to life and made them approachable by a younger audience. Her favourite pieces are now her translations of the Ramcharitmanas verses from Tulsidas, Achyutam Keshavam, and Sundar Kand.
The trio’s ongoing Ramcharitmanas series, which has crossed 300 episodes, is a rare blend of devotion and consistency in the digital age.
Although her contributions have been acknowledged by awards such as the Atal Mithila Samman and the Lokmat Sur Jyotsna National Music Award (2021), her greatest accomplishment is still her interpersonal relationships.
In recognition of their contribution to the preservation of local culture, the Election Commission of India even appointed her and her brothers as Madhubani brand ambassadors in 2019.
She has established a solid lead in Alinagar at the young age of 25, putting herself in a position to become the state's youngest MLA.
Her ascent is further remarkable given that she joined the BJP just a few weeks ago, lacking any prior political experience, a cadre base, or the support of the established apparatus.
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