Khesari Lal Yadav
| Khesari Lal Yadav | |
|---|---|
| |
| Born | 15 March 1986 (age 39) Dhanadih, Saran (Chhapra), Bihar, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Actor, Singer, Dancer, Politician |
| Years active | 2008–present |
| Known for | Bhojpuri Cinema Playback Singing Political Career with RJD |
| Notable works | Saajan Chale Sasural, Mehandi Laga Ke Rakhna, Sangharsh, Farishta |
| Awards | Best Popular Actor (2016) Best Actor & Playback Singer (2018) |
| Spouse | Chanda Devi (m. 2006) |
| Parents | Mangaru Lal Yadav (father) |
| Religion | Hinduism |
Khesari Lal Yadav (born Shatrughan Kumar Yadav; 15 March 1986) is an Indian actor, singer, dancer, and politician known for his contribution to Bhojpuri cinema. He has acted in over 70 Bhojpuri films and recorded more than 5,000 songs in Bhojpuri, Hindi, Awadhi, and Haryanvi.
Rising from a humble background in Bihar to becoming one of the biggest stars in regional entertainment, Khesari Lal is admired for his versatility, energetic performances, and powerful singing style. In 2025, he was announced as the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) candidate from the Chapra constituency for the Bihar Legislative Assembly election.[1]
Early Life and Background
Khesari Lal Yadav was born on 15 March 1986 in Dhanadih village, Saran district (Chhapra), Bihar. His father, Mangaru Lal Yadav, worked as a night watchman and street vendor, and his family faced severe financial hardship. Growing up in poverty, Khesari helped his family by grazing cattle and selling milk.
Despite these struggles, his passion for singing and performing was evident from a young age. Inspired by folk traditions, he began learning the popular Bhojpuri dance form known as “Launda Naach”, which became the foundation of his early stage career.[2]
Early Career
Between 1998 and 1999, Khesari started performing in Bhojpuri theatre and folk dramas, appearing in plays like *Ramayana* and *Mahabharata*. After moving to Delhi, he worked selling *litti chokha* on the streets to support his family while saving money to produce his first music album.
Although his debut album failed commercially, his second release gained popularity, earning him recognition in the Bhojpuri music industry. Within a few years, he became one of the most sought-after singers in the regional scene, performing devotional and romantic tracks that resonated deeply with rural audiences.
Acting Career
Khesari Lal made his film debut with Saajan Chale Sasural (2011), which established him as a rising star in Bhojpuri cinema. Between 2012 and 2016, he appeared in several commercially successful films including:
- Ae Balma Biharwala
- Chhapra Express
- Nagin
- Khiladi
- Pratigya 2
He gained massive fame with Mehandi Laga Ke Rakhna (2017), which earned him Best Actor and Best Playback Singer at the 2018 Sabrang Film Awards.
His performance in Farishta (2023) – as a mentally challenged man – was highly acclaimed, marking one of the biggest Bhojpuri hits of the year. He has since become a symbol of regional stardom and artistic consistency.
Bollywood & Television
Khesari made his Bollywood singing debut with the song "AK-47" from Koyelaanchal (2014). His Hindi film debut came with Global Baba (2016). In 2019, he entered the national spotlight as a contestant on Bigg Boss 13.
He also wrote the screenplay for the 2022 Bhojpuri film Aashiqui.
Political Career
In October 2025, Khesari Lal Yadav joined active politics, being declared the RJD candidate from Chapra constituency for the Bihar Legislative Assembly election. Known for his outspoken views on social justice and farmer welfare, his entry into politics marked a significant transition from entertainment to public service.
Music Career
Khesari’s musical journey began with devotional albums in 2008. His early hit songs like "Saiyaan Arab Gaile Na" and "Piyawa Rahele Saudi Re Bhauji" brought him mass appeal across Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
He has since recorded over 5,000 tracks, ranging from romantic and festive songs to patriotic numbers. His notable works include:
- Thik Hai
- Ladki Patana
- Tere Mere Darmiyaan
- Bhojpuri version of Pani Pani (with Badshah)
His songs "Nathuniya" and "Le Le Aain Coca Cola" were both featured in YouTube’s Top Indian Songs list of 2022.
Philanthropy
Khesari Lal manages the Khesari Foundation, which provides financial and educational assistance to orphans and underprivileged children.
He has funded education for over 60 children and regularly donates to flood relief efforts in Bihar. His foundation also supports elderly care homes and medical aid for rural communities.
Awards and Achievements
- Best Popular Actor – Bhojpuri Film Awards (2016)
- Best Actor (Male) & Best Playback Singer (Male) – Sabrang Film Awards (2018)
- YouTube’s Top Indian Songs of the Year (2022) – “Nathuniya” & “Le Le Aain Coca Cola”
- Honored for contribution to Bhojpuri culture and cinema by multiple regional organizations
Notable Works
- Saajan Chale Sasural (2011)
- Mehandi Laga Ke Rakhna (2017)
- Sangharsh (2018)
- Aashiqui (2022) – also as screenwriter
- Farishta (2023)
Legacy
Khesari Lal Yadav’s rise from a poor background to superstardom in Bhojpuri cinema represents the power of perseverance and self-belief. His influence extends beyond entertainment—into philanthropy, social work, and now politics—making him one of Bihar’s most beloved cultural icons.