POLIQ
West Bengal Politics
Mithun Chakraborty's Shifting Political Sands: Bengal's 'Mahaguru' Factor
POLIQ NEWS
Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty has emerged as a significant figure in West Bengal politics, notably contributing to the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) recent Assembly election victory in 2026, where he is considered an 'unsung hero'. His political journey has been marked by diverse affiliations, starting with early Naxalite leanings and a period as a Trinamool Congress (TMC) Rajya Sabha MP from 2014 to 2016. He resigned from the Upper House citing health concerns amid investigations into the Saradha chit fund scam, where he returned funds. Since joining the BJP in March 2021, Chakraborty has actively campaigned, using his cinematic appeal and addressing issues like illegal immigration and law and order in the state. He was recently awarded the Padma Bhushan and Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2024.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Mithun Chakraborty played a pivotal role in the BJP's 2026 West Bengal Assembly election success.
His political career spans from early Naxalite leanings to a TMC Rajya Sabha MP, now a prominent BJP campaigner.
He resigned from the Rajya Sabha amidst the Saradha chit fund scam investigations, later joining the BJP in 2021.
Chakraborty frequently highlights issues like illegal immigration and law and order in West Bengal during his campaigns.
WHY IT MATTERS
Mithun Chakraborty's evolving political trajectory underscores the significant influence of celebrity figures in Indian elections, particularly in shaping regional narratives and electoral outcomes in West Bengal.