From legacy to leadership

Samrat Choudhary's ascent reflects legacy, caste dynamics, and political shifts Patna: The rise of Samrat Choudhary in Bihar's political landscape is not merely the story of an individual's success, but a reflection of a long political tradition, evolving social equations, and shifting power dynamics over time. Following his election as the leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party's legislative wing, his elevation to the chief minister's office appears almost certain, which is marking a decisive...

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Samrat Choudhary's ascent reflects legacy, caste dynamics, and political shifts Patna: The rise of Samrat Choudhary in Bihar's political landscape is not merely the story of an individual's success, but a reflection of a long political tradition, evolving social equations, and shifting power dynamics over time. Following his election as the leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party's legislative wing, his elevation to the chief minister's office appears almost certain, which is marking a decisive milestone in a political journey spanning more than three and half decades. Over the years, his political journey traversed multiple parties, including the Congress, Samata Party, Rashtriya Janata Dal, Janata Dal (United), and Hindustani Awam Morcha. His name did surface in a high-profile criminal case in 1995, though he was later acquitted due to lack of evidence. Samrat Choudhary's mother Parvati Devi was also politically active and was elected as an MLA from Tarapur in a 1998 by-election. Among his siblings, Rohit Choudhary is associated with the JD(U) and is active in the education sector, while Dharmendra Choudhary is engaged in social work. His wife, Mamta Kumari, has also been actively involved during election campaigns. The family includes a son Pranay and a daughter Charu Priya. Choudhary entered active politics in 1990, beginning his career with the RJD. In 1999, he became Agriculture Minister in the Rabri Devi government, though his appointment was mired in controversy over his age, eventually forcing him to step down. He later parted ways with the RJD, moved to the JD(U), and ultimately joined the BJP. Since 2018, his stature within the BJP has steadily grown, culminating in his appointment as the party's Bihar state president in 2022. Controversy Man With the beginning of his new innings in the BJP, Choudhary once again found himself in the spotlight, this time over questions surrounding his educational qualifications. Allegations regarding the validity of the degree mentioned in his election affidavit became part of political discourse. The opposition, particularly Prashant Kishor, raised the issue forcefully during the elections. However, the controversy failed to gain substantive traction and remained confined to political rhetoric, with no significant impact on electoral outcomes. Hailing from the Tarapur region of Munger district, Choudhary's identity is deeply rooted in this region. Historically influential, the region has provided a strong social and political base for both him and his family. Belonging to the Kushwaha (Koeri) community, he represents a crucial social base in Bihar's caste equations. This makes his role significant in the 'Lav-Kush' (Kurmi-Koeri) political dynamic that has shaped the state's politics for decades. Sharp Turns Choudhary's political journey has been marked by sharp turns and contradictions. At one stage, he was among the fiercest critics of Nitish Kumar, even declaring that he would not remove his traditional 'Muraitha' (a kind of turban) until Kumar was unseated from power. Yet, as political equations shifted, Choudhary not only consolidated his position within the BJP but also emerged as a key figure in power-sharing arrangements with Nitish Kumar. After 2020, when Sushil Kumar Modi was moved to national politics, new opportunities opened up for Choudhary. He became a member of the Legislative Council, later served as Leader of the Opposition, and eventually rose to become state president. His political stature further expanded when, following Nitish Kumar's return to the NDA, Choudhary was entrusted with the dual roles of Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister, which is an unprecedented move in Bihar's political framework. Despite his rise, controversies have not been entirely absent from his career. Questions regarding his age and educational qualifications surfaced intermittently, though their long-term political impact remained limited. Today, Samrat Choudhary stands at the center of Bihar's political stage. His ascent is not merely the result of personal ambition but the outcome of a deep political legacy, an understanding of social dynamics, and strong organisational acumen. The real test now lies in how he transforms this legacy into effective governance and development. Strengthening law and order and meeting public expectations will be crucial. The people of Bihar are watching closely, and only time will determine how successfully he rises to the occasion.

Are Women Better Investors Than Men?

Kaustubh Kale
Feb 28
2 min read

As we enter March and celebrate International Women’s Day this month, much of the spotlight rightly falls on women’s achievements in business, leadership, science, and public life. Yet one area where women often outperform men - and still receive too little recognition - is investing.

Money management is often seen as a male-dominated space. However, across households and financial markets, women have quietly and consistently demonstrated qualities that make them better investors. Their patience, discipline, and long-term thinking often lead to stronger financial outcomes.

Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Lakshmi

In Hindu mythology, Goddess Saraswati symbolizes knowledge and Goddess Lakshmi symbolizes wealth. These two pillars - knowledge and wealth - are deeply connected in investing. Wise wealth creation comes not from speed or speculation, but from understanding, learning, and sound decision-making.

In this, women often excel. They tend to take the time to understand financial matters, ask the right questions, and make informed choices instead of chasing trends.

Why Women Make Better Investors

Patience and Long-Term Vision: Men are often more prone to impulsive decisions, frequent trading, or the temptation of quick gains. Women, on the other hand, are more likely to stay invested with a long-term mindset. Their ability to remain calm during market volatility can significantly improve returns over time.

Disciplined and Goal-Based: Women are naturally strong at budgeting, planning, and aligning money with life goals - whether it is children’s education, buying a home, or retirement security. Their emotional connection to these goals often helps them remain consistent and disciplined in investing.

Risk-Aware, Not Risk-Averse: Women are often misunderstood as risk-averse. In reality, they are usually risk-aware. They tend to take calculated risks and prefer appropriate asset allocation instead of reckless exposure. This balanced approach can help create wealth while managing downside risk.

Trust and Willingness to Learn: Women are often more open to financial education and more willing to seek guidance from qualified financial advisors. Unlike many men who may overestimate their investing ability, women often approach investing with humility and a learning mindset. Once they trust the right expert, they are more likely to stay committed to a sensible long-term plan.

Women Leading the Financial World

These qualities also explain why many leading financial institutions today are successfully led by women. Their blend of strategic thinking, discipline, and emotional intelligence makes them exceptional money managers - both personally and professionally.

Final Thoughts

As more women recognize these natural strengths, they can take even greater control of their financial futures - and build lasting wealth with confidence.

(The author is a Chartered Accountant and CFA (USA). Financial Advisor. Views personal. He could be reached on 9833133605.)

1 Comment

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Mar 03

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