Early Life and Family Background
Chirag Kumar Paswan was born on 31 October 1982 in Delhi, India, into a politically influential family. He is the son of the late Ram Vilas Paswan, a long-serving Union Minister, and Reena Sharma Paswan, who comes from a Punjabi Hindu background. Growing up in such an environment, Chirag was exposed very early to politics and public life.
Education and Shift to Acting
Chirag pursued his education at the Institute of Engineering and Technology, Bundelkhand University in Jhansi, where he studied Computer Engineering. However, he left his studies during the third semester, choosing instead to explore other paths.
His first major career switch was into acting. In 2011, he made his Bollywood debut in the film “Miley Naa Miley Hum”, starring opposite Kangana Ranaut. The movie, unfortunately, did not do well at the box office. Despite the setback, this experience marked an important transitional phase in his personal and professional life.
Political Career: Rise and Challenges
After his short stint in Bollywood, Chirag fully embraced politics. He joined his father’s Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) and contested the 2014 general election from the Jamui Lok Sabha constituency. He won, defeating his nearest rival by a significant margin.
He was re-elected in the 2019 Lok Sabha election, again from Jamui, solidifying his base. When his father passed away in 2020, a split emerged within the LJP. Chirag formed his own faction named Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), or LJP (RV), in 2021. Later that same year, he became the first president of LJP (RV).
In the 2024 general election, he shifted his electoral base and contested from Hajipur, winning the seat and returning to the Lok Sabha. Shortly after, he was appointed as the Union Minister of Food Processing Industries on 10 June 2024 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Social Initiatives and Public Image
Beyond electoral politics, Chirag Paswan is known for his youth-centric messaging and social outreach. He runs an NGO called “Chirag Ka Rojgar”, which focuses on job creation for young people, especially in his home state of Bihar.
He has also made efforts to reshape his political identity beyond caste-based politics. While many see him as a “Dalit icon” because of his Paswan roots, he has expressed a desire to transcend that image and appeal to a broader constituency.
Political Philosophy and Alliances
Chirag has maintained a clear and consistent commitment to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). He has stressed that his personal political ambitions do not surpass his loyalty to the alliance. Despite speculations around higher ambitions, in 2025 he publicly ruled out running for Bihar Chief Minister, emphasizing instead longer-term goals and his supportive role in NDA’s Bihar strategy.
Personal Life & Profile
- Full name: Chirag Kumar Paswan
- Date of Birth: 31 October 1982
- Height: Reported to be around 5′ 11″
- Family: Son of Ram Vilas Paswan; has a sister Asha Paswan.
- Net Worth & Lifestyle: His net worth is estimated at around Rs 2.68 crore. He owns a Maruti Gypsy (2015) and a Toyota Fortuner (2014), and owns property in Patna.
Legacy and Impact
Chirag Paswan is often seen as the torchbearer of his father Ram Vilas Paswan’s political legacy. But he is not merely living in his shadow — he is growing his own identity. Through his leadership, LJP (RV) has attempted a revival, and his recent political successes show his growing influence within the NDA and in Bihar politics.
He represents a younger, more dynamic facet of Dalit politics, while also projecting a broader developmental agenda. By combining social outreach (through his NGO), political strategies, and ministerial power, he is carving out a central role for himself in national politics.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Who is Chirag Paswan?
Chirag Paswan is an Indian politician and former actor. He is the son of veteran politician Ram Vilas Paswan, and currently serves as the Union Minister of Food Processing Industries.
When and where was he born?
He was born on 31 October 1982 in Delhi, India.
What is his educational background?
He studied Computer Engineering at the Institute of Engineering and Technology, Bundelkhand University, but dropped out in his third semester.
Did he work outside politics?
Yes. He acted in the 2011 film Miley Naa Miley Hum.
Which political party does he lead?
He leads the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), or LJP (RV).
What is his current political role?
He is a Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) from Hajipur, and serves as the 19th Union Minister of Food Processing Industries.
What social initiatives is he associated with?
He runs an NGO called “Chirag Ka Rojgar” that focuses on job creation for youth.
Does he have higher political ambitions in Bihar?
While speculated to aim for the Bihar Chief Minister role, in 2025 he ruled this out, stating his focus is on the long term and strengthening the NDA.
Conclusion
Chirag Paswan’s life journey is a compelling mix of legacy, ambition, and transformation. Born into a prominent political family, he briefly tried Bollywood before dedicating himself to public service. Over the years, he has built his own political identity — navigating party splits, forging a youth-driven vision, and playing a meaningful role at the national level as a Union Minister.
He is not just carrying his father’s legacy — he is reconstructing it. With LJP (RV) under his leadership and increasing influence within NDA, Chirag Paswan is emerging as a dynamic and strategic politician whose actions could shape Bihar and national politics for years to come.