Kali Prasad Pandey’s name is taken as a struggling and influential Bahubali leader in Bihar politics. He created history by winning the 1984 Lok Sabha elections while in jail and became ‘Robinhood’ for the poor.
Patna: It is a matter of those days of Bihar politics, when Kali Prasad Pandey was known as Bahubali. Kali Pandey’s political journey from Ramjita village in Gopalganj was full of ups and downs, but her struggling image gave her a place among the most influential leaders of Bihar. Born on 28 October 1946, Kali Prasad Pandey’s image became a ‘Robinhood’ in Bihar politics. He became an MP from jail, kept his hold strong despite controversies and was a guru of Bahubali politics of Bihar whose name was taken by every notorious Bahubali with respect.
Elections won while in jail
In 1984, when the entire country was immersed in a heartbreaking wave for the assassination of Indira Gandhi, Kali Prasad was lodged in jail. Even in that historical time, he contested from behind the prison bars as an independent candidate and won the charismatic victory. This victory was an example in Bihar politics, which confirmed his image. He later joined the Congress party.
Relationships with political parties and Bahubali
Kali Prasad Pandey was part of many parties in his political journey, Congress, RJD and eventually Lok Janshakti Party (LJP). He played an important role in the LJP as National General Secretary and Spokesperson. Kali Pandey’s image was so strong that Shahabuddin, the infamous Bahubali of Siwan, also considered him his guru.
Tightness of disputes
His name was also surrounded by controversies. Especially in 1989, Kali Prasad accused Nagina Rai at Patna Junction, but the charge in the court was not found to be true. For many Bahubali leaders, Kali Pandey was like ‘Guru’, it suggests that he was playing the role of a player in balance between crime and politics.
Social worker and popular leader
Although the controversy continued to follow him, Kali Prasad Pandey did many social work. He was also known as the poor of the poor. Unlike publicity, he was also famous for the simple and kind image among the public. He used to say, “I want my life to be useful for you,” who describes dedication to their people.
Bahubali Guru of Bihar politics
In the 80s and 90s, Kali Pandey’s image in Bihar’s politics was ‘Sher-e-Bihar’ and ‘Bahubali Guru’. His lifestyle also made a 1987 film “Pratik”, which gives a glimpse of his life. He was one of the Bahubali leaders of Bihar-Uttar Pradesh whose presence was important in every political debate.
Messages of end
His last wish was that his life should be used. He remained active in Bihar politics for years and kept his influence as long as he breathed. With his departure, Bihar lost a leader who had not only shown everything during the Jungle Raj, but was also an example of change.