At the India TV 'She' Conclave event, Bihar MLA Maithili Thakur spoke about her journey in public life, the growing role of women in public space, and the meaning of feminism. During the conversation with India TV, Thakur highlighted the importance of determination, family support, and perseverance in achieving success. At 25, the BJP candidate secured a victory in Bihar's Alinagar Assembly seat.
Speaking about gender equality, Maithili Thakur said that discussions around feminism are often misunderstood. She explained that feminism should not be seen as something that is against men, but rather as a movement that supports equality and mutual respect. According to her, empowering women does not mean opposing men. Instead, it is about creating a society where both men and women work together with equal respect and opportunities.
Recalling her childhood, Thakur said that when she was young, her father often encouraged her with affection and support. She noted that such encouragement within families plays an important role in shaping confidence and aspirations among young girls.
From reality shows to public life: Maithili Thakur shares her journey
Talking about her early journey in music and participation in singing reality shows, Maithili Thakur said the experience was often discouraging, but she decided to give it her best. She added that if things had not worked out in music, she would have even considered preparing for the UPSC examinations.
Thakur also credited her father for constantly motivating her during difficult moments. She said that whenever she felt disheartened, her father would encourage her with comforting words and remind her that setbacks were not the end of life. According to her, he would often tell her that if something is lost in one moment, something bigger may be waiting ahead.
Father's guidance shaped her outlook
Speaking about the role her father played in shaping her perspective, Thakur said he always tried to explain things logically and help her stay positive during challenging times. She added that his words were extremely comforting and helped her stay focused on her goals.
Thakur also spoke about what inspired her to consider entering politics. She recalled that while travelling, she would often see political leaders moving freely while others remained stuck in traffic. Growing up in Delhi, she said her father used to show her how leaders and civil servants lived and worked. Through such experiences, she gradually became curious about public life and governance, which eventually shaped her interest in politics. With a chuckle, she mentioned that when she said that she wanted to enter politics, she was joking, but soon everything changed.
Maithili Thakur on dealing with criticism during elections
Speaking about her experience during the election campaign, Maithili Thakur said she faced a difficult phase when old videos from her singing days in London began circulating on social media. She recalled that when she went to file her nomination for the elections, many people started sharing those clips and posting harsh comments online.
Thakur said the negative comments affected her deeply at the time. She admitted that she became preoccupied with reading the comments and would often check them even after returning from campaigning. According to her, the criticism initially broke her morale. However, she said several senior political leaders encouraged her and helped her regain confidence. Their support, she added, gave her the strength to stay focused on her campaign.
'Social media is not the real world'
Talking about the influence of social media, Thakur said people should not confuse online popularity with real-world acceptance. She emphasised that being famous on social media does not necessarily mean one has genuine public support on the ground. According to her, real connections are built through direct interaction with people. She said meeting citizens, talking to them, and understanding their concerns at the grassroots level are what truly matter in public life.
Family support helps her stay grounded
Speaking about how she deals with stressful moments, Maithili Thakur said she often turns to her family for support. She shared that whenever she feels troubled, she talks to her parents, which helps her feel calmer. She added that now that her two brothers are older, they also help ease her stress and encourage her during difficult moments.
Thakur also recalled an incident that left her upset. She said that after attending events throughout the day and clicking nearly 2,000 photographs with people, she returned home feeling exhausted and realised that her card for life had gone missing. While she was in the lift, some people entered the same lift and requested her for photographs, but she politely declined because she was tired.
According to her, someone commented that she had developed an "attitude", which made her feel disheartened. However, she said her brother later comforted her and advised her to let it go, reminding her not to take such remarks too seriously.
Addressing misconceptions about being disconnected from the ground
Speaking about public perception, Maithili Thakur said that some people believed she was not familiar with ground realities. She noted that there were also rumours suggesting that she would continue living in cities like London or Kolkata and would not actively work among people.
Thakur said she addressed these perceptions by directly interacting with citizens and listening to their concerns. According to her, when leaders speak openly with people, many misunderstandings automatically get cleared. She added that people are generally simple and approachable when given the opportunity to communicate.
When PM Modi presented her the Digital Creator Award
Recalling the moment when Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented her with the Digital Creator Award, Thakur said the experience left a strong impression on her. She said that when she stood in front of him, she was deeply influenced by his personality and the way he interacted with people. According to her, Modi speaks with simplicity and humility, which makes others feel comfortable.
Thakur also noted that before that interaction, she did not know much about the Bharatiya Janata Party, but the values and culture she observed during that time stayed with her. She added that Prime Minister Modi shows great respect towards senior leaders, which she found particularly admirable.
On limiting extended family interference
Speaking about family dynamics, Maithili Thakur said she had already reduced the influence of extended family in her personal decisions. She recalled that during difficult times, even a small amount of financial help could have made a difference, but that support was not always available. Thakur said she openly spoke about these experiences, pointing out that even a small gesture of support could have helped them move forward faster. According to her, after expressing her thoughts clearly, members of the extended family no longer interfered in such matters. When asked about her marriage plans, Thakur said she is still young and currently focused on her work. She noted that she has many responsibilities and goals ahead, and for now, her priority is to continue working and contributing to public life.
Message for young women
Sharing a message for young women, Thakur said many people hesitate to take the first step because they worry about what others might say. According to her, such fears often become invisible barriers that stop individuals from moving forward. She encouraged young women to overcome these doubts and take bold steps toward their goals. Thakur added that support from parents and friends
The gathering, hosted by India TV, honours remarkable women from various sectors who persist in transforming their careers and promoting significant change within society.
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