Patna, Bihar, India: For years, Bihar’s political landscape has seen changes in parties, alliances, and election outcomes — yet one thing has remained constant: Nitish Kumar continuing as the Chief Minister. Regardless of which coalition secures a majority, Nitish Kumar has consistently managed to retain the top post. Many political observers had predicted that his party would struggle this time, but the results show a different picture.

For almost two decades, Nitish Kumar has dominated Bihar’s politics. Except for a brief break from 2014 to 2015, he has held the Chief Minister’s chair continuously for around 20 years. Governments changed, coalitions shifted, but leadership never moved away from him. Even this election, despite predictions that the Janata Dal (United) might face setbacks, the party appears positioned to secure almost twice the number of seats expected earlier.

In Bihar’s politically dramatic environment, Nitish has often been compared to a king without a crown. Coming from a modest Kurmi family, he grew up far from the political world. His entry into public life began during the JP Movement in the late 1970s, which laid the foundation for his long political journey. His rise did not happen quickly; patience, discipline, and steady work defined his path.

Over the years, Nitish Kumar has made bold, sometimes surprising decisions — switching alliances, forming new ones, and returning to old partners when required. He has always been strategic about when to join a coalition and when to exit one. Despite criticism of his political flexibility, many also credit him for bringing improvements to Bihar’s healthcare and education systems.

Another notable point is that although Nitish has been Chief Minister for many years, he has usually served as an MLC rather than an MLA. He contested Assembly elections only three times — in 1977, 1980, and 1985 — losing the first two and winning for the first time in 1985. After becoming Chief Minister, he has never again contested as an MLA.