Humble beginnings in Bakhtiyarpur
Born in 1951 in the modest town of Bakhtiyarpur, Nitish Kumar grew up in a household led by his father, an Ayurvedic practitioner and local Congress leader. His small-town upbringing and early friendships deeply influenced his practical and disciplined approach to politics.
Cinematic affection: Mere Mehboob
According to the biography Nitish Kumar: Antarang Doston Ki Nazar Se by his college friend Uday Kant Mishra, Kumar has watched Mere Mehboob multiple times, directed by H.S. Rawail and featuring Rajendra Kumar and Sadhana in lead roles. (File photo)
Engineer before politician
Nitish Kumar is affectionately called "Munna" by close friends and family. He holds an engineering degree from Patna College of Engineering, now NIT Patna, and briefly worked at the Bihar State Electricity Board.
Early political doubts
Before rising to prominence, Nitish Kumar faced serious setbacks. Losing elections in 1977 and 1980 from Harnaut made him consider quitting politics and exploring a career in business. Close friends later recalled that these early defeats weighed heavily on his young political ambitions.
Wife’s financial and moral support
In 1985, when he resolved to contest elections again, his wife Manju gave him Rs 20,000 from her personal savings to fund his campaign. (File photo)
First term as CM was fleeting
Nitish Kumar first became Bihar’s Chief Minister in 2000, but his tenure lasted only a week due to political instability. It wasn’t until 2005 that he began a more sustained period in office.
Mentored by socialist leaders
As a young activist, Nitish was influenced by socialist stalwarts like Jayaprakash Narayan, Ram Manohar Lohia, and Karpoori Thakur. He actively participated in the JP movement of the 1970s, which opposed corruption and authoritarianism. His bedroom reportedly has just a wooden cot, two plastic chairs, and an almirah, and he often eats simple meals seated on the floor.
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