Lena is an Indian actress, author, scriptwriter, YouTuber, and psychologist, who has predominately worked in the Malayalam entertainment industry. She hit the headlines in February 2024 after she revealed her marriage to Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, the commander of the Gaganyaan mission.

Wiki/Biography

Lena Kumar, known as Lena Prasanth after marriage, was born on Wednesday, 18 March 1981 (age 43 years; as of 2024) in Thrissur, Kerala, India. Her zodiac sign is Pisces.

A childhood photo of Lena Kumar

She did her schooling at the Seventh Day Adventist Higher Secondary School in Thrissur, Kerala. She was a state-level rank holder in class 12th board exams.

A photo of Lena taken when she was in school

Thereafter, she enrolled at the Prajyoti Niketan College in Puthukkad, Kerala, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in science in psychology. She topped her class. After graduation, she started acting in films; however, she quit acting to earn a post-graduate degree. For this, she enrolled at a college in Mumbai, where she earned a post-graduate degree in psychology. ^[1]The Hindu After completing her formal education, she began working as a psychologist. However, she quit her job as she was dissatisfied with the job. In an interview, she spoke about it and said,

It was very draining and disturbing. Dealing with people who are disturbed is very strenuous. I was planning to do my doctorate in psychology, but I realised it was not for me. Acting is more enjoyable, besides it pays well too.”

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 6″

Weight (approx.): 65 kg

Hair Colour: Black

Eye Colour: Dark Brown

Figure Measurements (approx.): 34-32-34

Lena posing for a photo with Dino Morea

Family

Parents & Siblings

Her father, Mohankumar Thathampilly (also spelt as T. Mohan Kumar), is a psychologist who has taught behavioural sciences at SBI Staff Training College in Hyderabad. His mother’s name is Tina Mohan Kumar. She has a younger sister named Tasha Kumar.

Lena and her parents posing for a photo

Husband & Children

Her ex-husband’s name is Abhilash Kumar. He works in the Malayalam film industry as a screenwriter. The couple got married to each other on 16 January 2004. However, they got divorced in 2013.

A photo of Lena Kumar with Abhilash Kumar

Her husband, Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, is a group captain in the Indian Air Force. In February 2024, he was chosen as the commander of a 4-man team of astronauts for the Gaganyaan mission, which is to take place in 2025. The couple got married to each other on 17 January 2024.

P. Balakrishnan Nair with Lena posing for a photo

Lena revealed her marriage with Nair to the public through an Instagram post on 27 February 2024, after PM Narendra Modi’s announcement regarding the selection of Nair for the Gaganyaan project. According to her, it was an arranged marriage. Lena also claimed that she maintained secrecy about her marriage to Prasanth to avoid any potential interference with his work as an astronaut.

An Instagram post uploaded by Lena about her marriage

Relationships/Affairs

Leena entered a relationship with Abhilash Kumar when they both studied in the same school. According to Abhilash, Lena’s mother initially was against their relationship and even asked him numerous times to stop contacting Lena. However, Lena’s parents approved their relationship after they both began working.

A photo of Abhilash Kumar

Religion

Lena follows Hinduism.

Career

Film

She made her acting debut in the Malayalam film industry in 1998 with the film Sneham. She essayed the role of a character named Ammu.

A poster of the 1998 Malayalam film Sneham

In 2000, she appeared in the highly acclaimed Malayalam film Karunam. In the film, she played the role of a Christian nun.

A photo of Lena taken on the sets of Karunam

Throughout her career as an actor, Lena has appeared in many blockbuster Malayalam films such as Kochu Kochu Santhoshangal (2000), Big B (2007), Daddy Cool (2009), Robin Hood (2009), Traffic (2011), Spirit (2012), Kanyaka Talkies (2013), Njangalude Veettile Athidhikal (2014), Monster (2022), Oh My Darling (2023), and Article 21 (2023).

Lena with Mohanlal on the sets of Monster

She made her debut in the Tamil film industry with the 2015 film Anegan in which she essayed the role of a doctor named Radhika. In the film, she shared the screen with the popular Indian actor Dhanush.

A poster of the Tamil film Anegan

In 2016, she appeared in her first Bollywood film Airlift. In the film, she shared the screen with renowned Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar and essayed the role of a character named Deepti Jayarajan.

Lena Kumar in a still from the Bollywood film Airlift

She made her debut in the Telugu film industry in 2017 with the film Dr. Chakravarthy. In the film, she appeared as Vandana Chakravarthy.

Dr. Chakravarthy’s poster

In 2023, she appeared in an English film titled Footprints on Water. She made her debut as a scriptwriter with the Malayalam film Olam in 2023.

A poster of Olam

Television & Web Series

In 2002, she made her debut in the Malayalam television industry with the Asianet show Sneha. From 2005 to 2006, Lena appeared as a character named Jancy in the Asianet TV show Omanathinkal Pakshi.

Lena in a still from the serial Omanathinkal Pakshi

She went on to appear in many famous Malayalam daily soap operas such as Thadangal Palayam (2006) on Asianet, Kanal Kireedam (2009) on Surya TV, Alavudeente Albhuthavilakku (2010-2011) on Asianet, Satyameva Jayate (2013-2014) on Surya TV, and Manjuthirum Munpe (2014) on DD Malayalam. Her first web series in the Telugu language is Shaitan, which was streamed on Disney+ Hotstar in 2023. In it, she appeared as a character named Mary Joseph.

Poster of the 2023 Telugu web series ‘Shaitan’

Music Albums

Other than acting in films, TV serials, and web series, Lena has also been spotted in many Malayalam song albums. Some popular albums are Pranayam (1995), Pranayathin Ormakkayi (2005), and Amma Manasam.

Other Works in The Entertainment Industry

Lena Kumar dubbed the 2001 Malayalam film Randam Bhavam. In 2022, she lent her voice to dub the dialogues of Raveena Tandon’s character in Malayalam in the Kannada film K.G.F: Chapter 2. She has also hosted various shows including Your Choice on Asianet, Amul Sangeetha Mahayudham on Surya TV, and Vivel Big Break on Surya TV. She has also endorsed various brands, such as Grandma’s, MJ Foods, Indulekha Bringha Hair Oil, and Maruthua Pharma Pancha Jeeraka Gudam.

YouTuber

On 12 March 2015, Lena started her YouTube channel named Lenaa’s Magazine. On the channel, she posts vlogs about her travel experiences, fitness, and food. As of March 2024, she has more than 56.2K subscribers.

A snip of Lena’s YouTube channel

Controversy

Remarks on Allopathic Medicines and Treatment of Mental Illnesses

Lena hit the headlines in 2023, after she, in an interview, made some controversial remarks regarding the mode of treatment offered to the patients by psychologists and psychiatrists. She criticised the use of allopathy and raised questions about its effectiveness. After the statement, the Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists (Kerala region) issued a statement in which it criticised her for her remarks. The association also claimed that Lena only has a degree in psychology and is not a certified psychologist to make such remarks. They called her statement an attempt to “mislead the public and create a wrong impression about the field of clinical psychology.” ^[2]The News Minute Their statement read,

We, as an association, want to make it clear that Ms Lena is not a member of our organisation, and we do not endorse or have any responsibility for her statements or views. We hope that this statement helps to clarify the situation and reaffirms our commitment to upholding the standards and ethics of the clinical psychology profession in Kerala.”

She, however, defended herself by claiming that every citizen of India has the right to the Freedom of Speech under Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian constitution. She also said that the remarks were only her views. ^[3]Jagran English

Awards

2008

• Kerala State TV Award – Best Actress for the show Aranazhika Neram

• Atlas Kerala Film Critics Award – Best Second Actress for the show Chillu Vilakkumayi

2011

• Filmfare Award South – Best Supporting Actress (Malayalam) for the film Traffic

• Amrita Film Award – Best Supporting Actress for the film Traffic

• Kerala Film Critics Association Award – Second Best Actor (Female) for the films Traffic and Athe Mazha Athe Veyil

2012

• Asianet Film Award – Best Supporting Actress for the film Spirit

2013

• Kerala State Film Award – Second Best Actress for the films Left Right Left and Kanyaka Talkies
  

  A photo of Lena’s Kerala State Film Award For Left Right Left and Kanyaka Talkies

• South Indian International Movie Award (SIIMA) – Best Supporting Actor (Female) for the film Left Right Left

2014

• Thikkurissi Foundation Award for her contribution to the Malayalam cinema
  

  Lena receiving the Thikkurissi Foundation Award

2015

• Kerala Film Critics Association Award – Second Best Actor (Female) for the film Ennu Ninte Moideen

• Asianet Film Award – Best Character Actress for the film Ennu Ninte Moideen

• Vanitha Film Award – Best Supporting Actor (Female) for the film Ennu Ninte Moideen
  

  Lena Kumar holding her Vanitha Award

• South Indian International Movie Award (SIIMA) – Best Supporting Actor (Female) for the film Ennu Ninte Moideen

• Filmfare Award South – Best Supporting Actor (Female) for the film Ennu Ninte Moideen
  

  Lena posing for a photo with her Filmfare Award for Ennu Ninde Moideen

• IIFA Utsavam Award – Performance In A Supporting Role (Female) for the film Ennu Ninte Moideen
  

  The IIFA Utsavam Award of Lena

2016

• South Indian International Movie Award (SIIMA)
  

  Lena posing for a photo with her SIIMA 2016 award

2018

• Master Vision International Excellency Award for her contribution to the Malayalam cinema

2019

• Toronto International South-Asian Film Award (TISFA) – Best Supporting Actress for the films Adam Joan and Vimaanam

• Janmabhumi Legends Of Kerala Award – Best Supporting Actress

• South Indian International Movie Award (SIIMA) – Best Supporting Actor (Female) for the film Aadhi

• Ramu Kariat Award – Best Character Actress
  

  A poster announcing Lena’s reception of the Ramu Kariat Award

2024

• Bharatiya Excellence Awards for 25 Years Of Contribution To the Indian Cinema
  

  A photo of Lena taken when she was receiving the Bharatiya Excellence Award

Car Collection

She owns an MG Hector.

Lena posing for a photo with her MG Hector

Tattoo(s)

• Lena Kumar got a tattoo of an eye, a flower, a butterfly, and brahmaivahmaha inked on her upper left arm.
  

  Lena Kumar’s tattoo on her left arm

• Lena got a word in Sanskrit tattooed on her left inner upper arm.
  

  Lena’s tattoo on her inner left arm

• She got a tattoo of flying birds inked on her left forearm.
  

  Leena’s tattoos on her left forearm

• Lena has many tattoos inked on her body.
  

  A collage of the tattoos Lena has inked on her body

Facts/Trivia

• Her name is also spelt as Lenaa. ^[4]Mathrubhumi She revealed in an interview that she added an extra “a” to her name to have a better vibrational frequency after getting inspired by the shlokas written in the Hindu scriptures.

• When Lena was born, her father had sent a letter to her mom, Tina, suggesting that she be named ‘Lena’. He had actually meant ‘Leena,’ but the mistake went unnoticed, so Lena became her name.

• Many fans refer to her as Lady Mammootty.

• Lena began writing scripts for plays when she was in school. Her skills came to the attention of her principal, who recommended her name to the director of her first Malayalam film.

• She underwent Bharatanatyam and music training while studying in school.

• Lena was asked to come to the police station after she was caught by the cops for riding a scooter without a license when she was in Class 12th. According to her, the cops came to her house and took her and her father to the police station as she failed to come to the station.

• After acting in the first few films, Lena quit acting to pursue a master’s degree. She, however, returned to acting later.

• Lena is a believer in the cycle of death and rebirth. In an interview, she said that in her previous life, she was a Buddhist monk in the Himalayas. She even shaved her head for a 2-month long solo trip to Nepal to tour the Nepal-Tibet border. ^[5]The New Indian Express She said,
  

  I was a Buddhist monk, and I died at the age of 63. Maybe, that is why I tonsured my head and felt the spontaneous call to visit the Himalayas. I had died near the Tibet-Nepal border. I remember the entire lifetime and that’s why I felt like going there.”

  

  A photo of Lena Kumar taken after she shaved her head

• She is a travel enthusiast and has been to many countries including Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom.

• During the COVID-19 pandemic, many sources claimed that she had contracted the virus. However, she later posted a COVID test report on social media, claiming the reports to be false.
  

  Instagram post uploaded by Lena

• Lena Kumar consumes alcohol occasionally.
  

  An Instagram post uploaded by Lena

• She follows a non-vegetarian diet.
  

  A snip of a post uploaded by Lena on Instagram

• In an interview, Lena revealed that she ate gulab jamun after parting ways with Abhilash Kumar. She talked about it and said,
  

  Half an hour later when the lawyer came to inform us, we are next, he saw us sharing a gulab jamun.”

• She passionately follows her hobby of reading. She has read many books written by Osho on life and spirituality.
  

  Lena posing for a photo with a book

• She considers Mohanlal to be her spiritual guru.

• Lena is a mask-maker and has made masks of many film characters such as Heath Ledger’s Joker.

• She has taken part in many literary fests in and outside India.
  

  A photo of Lena taken at the Kerala Literature Fest

• In November 2022, Lena was invited to give a speech at the talk show TEDx Talks.
  

  A photo of Lena taken while she was giving a speech at TEDx

• While giving an interview, Lena expressed her support for renaming India as Bharat. ^[6]The New Indian Express She said,
  

  We have to go back to our roots. I believe there is something good, wisdom there. Moreover, a colonial power named us India. We changed so many names here – Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata…. So why not this change? Bharat is a very powerful name in our literature.”

• In 2023, Lena Kumar published a book titled The Autobiography of God.
  

  The Autobiography of God’s cover page

• When asked why she did not have kids with Abhilash Kumar, Lena said,
  

  We’d decided long back that we wouldn’t have children. We know the kind of persons we are and having children wouldn’t fit into the kind of work we both do.”

• Lena Kumar has also earned a certificate in Digital Product System (cum laude) from the DPS Board of Trustees.
  

  A photo of the degree received by Lena Kumar

• Her favourite line from the Upnashidas is “Om Poornnam-Adah Poornnam-Idam Poornnaat-Poornnam-Udacyate, Poornnasya Poornnam-Aadaaya Poornnam-Eva-Avashissyate.”

• Popular Indian-American motivational speaker, life coach, and social media influencer Jay Shetty follow her on Instagram.
  

  A snip of Lena Kumar’s Instagram account

• On 27 February 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi pinned astronaut wings on the uniform of her husband Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair.
  

  A photo of Balakrishnan Nair with Prime Minister Narendra Modi while he was pinning the astronaut wings on his chest

Rohan Nautiyal

A content writer, editor, and proofreader with over three years of experience in producing well-researched, user-friendly content that simplifies complex information for readers, helping brands to enhance their online presence.

Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair is an officer in the Indian Air Force (IAF), a vyomanaut (a term for astronauts derived from Sanskrit), and a fighter pilot. In February 2024, he hit the headlines when the Government of India officially announced his name as the commander of a four-man team of astronauts for the Indian Human Spaceflight Programme, Gaganyaan. This crew included Group Captain Angad Pratap, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla.

Wiki/Biography

Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair was born on Thursday, 26 August 1976 (age 47 years; as of 2023) in Thiruvazhiyad village, Palakkad district, Kerala, India. However, some sources claim his birthplace to be Nemmara, Palakkad district, Kerala, India. ^[1]Times Now His zodiac sign is Virgo. He completed his schooling till class 8th in Kuwait, where his father used to work. The family, however, relocated to India after Iraq invaded Kuwait. He completed his class 12th at the Chinmaya Vidyalaya in Palakkad in 1994. He was a school topper in class 12th and scored 455 marks out of 500.

A photo of the honour board at the Chinmaya Vidyalaya

A photo of Balakrishnan Nair taken when he was in school

In 1994, he enrolled at the NSS College of Engineering in Palakkad, where he began pursuing a bachelor’s degree in technology in instrumental and control engineering. ^[2]Onmanorama He simultaneously began preparing for the National Defence Academy’s entrance exam. After clearing exams for the NDA, he left his engineering studies and joined the academy. After training at NDA in Khadakwasla, Pune, for three years, he reported at the Air Force Academy (AFA) in Hyderabad, where he underwent fighter pilot training.

A photo of Nair taken when he was in the National Defence Academy (NDA)

After completing his formal training, he joined the IAF as a Flying Officer. As an IAF officer, he has attended many renowned military colleges, such as the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) in Wellington and the Air Command and Staff College (ACSC) in Montgomery, Alabama, the United States of America. He graduated from the ACSC with a first-class honours degree. After his selection as an astronaut, he enrolled at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, where he pursued a master’s degree in engineering.

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 9″

Weight: 50 kg

Hair Colour: Bald

Eye Colour: Dark Brown

Family

Parents & Siblings

His father, Valampil Balakrishnan Nair, is an engineer and a retired government official. His mother, Koolanghaat Prameela Nair, is a homemaker. He has two brothers and a sister. His brothers, Pradeep Nair and Praveen Nair, are engineers and are settled outside India. His sister, Pratibha, lives in Thrissur, Kerala.

P. Balakrishnan Nair’s photo with his family

Wife & Children

His wife, Lena Kumar (also spelt as Lenaa), is a renowned Malayalam film industry actress and an author. The couple got married to each other on 17 January 2024. The couple has no kids.

P. Balakrishnan Nair with Lena posing for a photo

Lena revealed her marriage with Nair to the public through an Instagram post on 27 February 2024, after PM Narendra Modi’s announcement. According to her, it was an arranged marriage. Lena also claimed that she maintained secrecy about her marriage to Prasanth to avoid any potential interference with his work as an astronaut.

An Instagram post uploaded by Lena about her marriage

Religion

He follows Hinduism. ^[3]Onmanorama

Career

Indian Air Force

According to some sources, Prasanth Nair was commissioned into the IAF on 19 December 1998, while some other sources claim that he was commissioned on 19 June 1999. As of 2024, Prasanth, as a group captain, has more than 3000 hours of flying experience in different aircrafts, such as Sukhoi Su-30MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, BAE Systems Hawk, Dornier 228, and Antonov An-32. He has also served as the Directing Staff at the DSSC in Wellington as well as an instructor at the Flying Instructors School (FIS) in Tambaram, Chennai. He has also commanded a squadron of the Sukhoi fleet of the IAF. He is a Category A pilot and a test pilot and has flown many aircraft for the Air Force to induct. In 2016, he was the pilot of the Sukhoi aircraft that test-fired the first air-launched variant of the Brahmos missile following which India became one of the few countries to have the capability to fire nuclear warheads from air, sea, and land.

Vyomnaut

In 2018, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) along with the Air Force selected more than 30 veteran pilots from the service to be part of the Gaganyaan mission. The mission aims to position astronauts 400 kilometres above sea level for 3 days and then safely land them back on Earth in 2025.

A photo of the Gaganyaan model along with the scientists that worked on it

By the middle of 2019, only 12 out of these 30 pilots were retained as the remaining were rejected. Later, four candidates, Group Captain Nair, Group Captain Pratap, Group Captain Krishnan, and Wing Commander Shukla were shortlisted. Out of these four, Balakrishnan was appointed mission commander. Following the completion of the initial space training in India at the Institute of Aerospace Medicine (IAM) in Bengaluru, the candidates reported for advanced space training in Russia at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center. There, they were trained for 18 months to work on the technical and other essential aspects of working in space.

After the candidates returned to India from Russia, they were further evaluated and trained at the Human Space Flight Centre in Bengaluru. In February 2024, the selected four officers of the IAF completed their space training module, and on 27 February 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi pinned astronaut wings on the uniforms of astronauts.

A photo of Balakrishnan with PM Modi while he was pinning the astronaut wings on his chest

Shubhanshu Shukla was chosen as the primary astronaut and Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair was selected as the backup for the Axiom 4 Mission to the International Space Station (ISS) under an agreement between ISRO and Axiom Space Inc. in August 2024.

Honours

Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair was the recipient of the Sword Of Honour during his passing out parade at the Air Force Academy (AFA) in Hyderabad.

Facts/Trivia

• His name is also spelt as Prashant B. Nair.

• Prasanth is a good basketball player. According to his school teachers, he learnt how to play the game in Kuwait. He introduced the sport at the Chinmaya Vidyalaya and made a team. He also represented his squadron in several basketball tournaments in NDA.

• After schooling, Prasanth managed to get good marks in the Engineering and Medical entrance exams. He, however, decided to opt for engineering after getting motivated by his siblings.

• To maintain his physical fitness, Balakrishnan used to do yoga, work out in a gym, and go for a swim while training to become an astronaut.
  

  Balakrishnan Nair performing yoga

• He passionately follows his hobby of reading.

• Prasanth’s team will become the first team of astronauts to be launched into space from Indian soil in 2025.

• Balakrishnan Nair underwent training in Russia at the same facility, where Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, the first Indian to go to space, was trained in 1984.
  

  A photo of Nair along with other chosen Indian astronauts taken while they were undergoing training in Russia

• He likes to eat home-cooked meals made by his mother.

• According to sources, before joining the astronaut training module, Balakrishnan weighed 75 kg. However, he lost 25 kgs due to the intense training.

• Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair likes to do meditation.

Rohan Nautiyal

A content writer, editor, and proofreader with over three years of experience in producing well-researched, user-friendly content that simplifies complex information for readers, helping brands to enhance their online presence.

Vahbiz Dorabjee is an Indian actor, fashion blogger, entrepreneur, YouTuber, and model, primarily working in the Hindi entertainment industry. She is well-known for her appearances in serials like Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahani (2010) on Star One, Saraswatichandra (2013) on StarPlus, and Bahu Hamari Rajni Kant (2016) on Life OK.

Wiki/Biography

Vahbiz Jehangir Dorabjee was born on Thursday, 28 November 1985 (age 38 years; as of 2023) in Pune, Maharashtra, India. Her zodiac sign is Sagittarius.

A photo of Vahbiz Dorabjee taken in her childhood

Vahbiz completed her schooling in Pune. Her school followed the American format of education. There, she used to participate in several extracurricular activities, including dancing.

A photo of Vahbiz Dorabjee taken while she was in school

After completing her schooling, she enrolled at the Nowrosjee Wadia College in Pune, where she pursued a bachelor’s degree in arts with Economics as a specialisation. ^[1]YouTube – SHIRAZ KHAN SHOW Thereafter, she shifted to Mumbai to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 6″

Weight (approx.): 70 kg

Hair Colour: Dark Brown

Eye Colour: Dark Brown

Figure Measurements (approx.): 38-30-36

Family

Parents & Siblings

Her father, Jehangir N Dorabjee, is an entrepreneur, who owns several businesses in Pune, Maharashtra.

Vahbiz with her father

Her mother, Firoza Dorabjee, is a businesswoman. Her brother, Daniel Dorabjee, is a fitness enthusiast and an entrepreneur.

A photo of Vahbiz with her mother

Vahbiz posing for a photo with her brother Daniel

Husband & Children

On 7 January 2013, she got married to Vivian Dsena, who is an actor. The couple, however, filed for a divorce in 2017; they were legally divorced on 18 December 2021. She has no kids. In an interview, she talked about her relationship with Vivian and said,

I am going through a failed relationship. It is painful, but you just have to take everything in your stride and have a positive attitude. That’s a challenge, but negativity can sink into you only if you let it.” ^[2]Hindustan Times

A photo of Vivian Dsena with Vahbiz Dorabjee taken during an event

Many sources claimed that the reason for their separation was that Vahabbiz was cheating on Vivian with actor Vipul Roy. However, Vahbiz and Vipul said that they were close friends and the rumours were untrue. ^[3]India TV News

Relationships/Affairs

Vahbiz Dorabjee met Vivian Dsena on the sets of the TV serial Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahaani (2010). The duo began dating each till their marriage in 2013.

Vivian Dsena with Vahbiz Dorabjee in a photo

Vahbiz was rumoured to be in a relationship with actor Vipul Roy. ^[4]India News

A photo of Vahbiz Dorabjee and Vipul Roy taken together

In 2017, reports began circulating that Vahbiz and actor Pankit Thakker were dating each other. However, his wife, Prachi Thakker, refuted the claims and called them baseless. She also rejected the allegations of Pankit being one of the reasons behind the separation of Vahbiz and Vivian. Vahbiz also refuted the claims. ^[5]The Indian Express Prachi, in an interview, claimed,

My husband has no hands in Vahbiz-Vivian’s divorce. I know my man and if he had to eye another woman, our marriage wouldn’t have lasted 17 years. I do not want to comment on Vahbiz, but it is really disturbing to read such stories.”

A photo of Vahbiz with Pankit Thakker

Religion

Vahbiz follows Zoroastrianism. She, however, is a strong believer in Sai Baba. While giving an interview, Vahbiz revealed that she always wears a Sai Baba ring in her hands and whenever she forgets to wear it, she gets uneasy. She said,

My Sai Baba ring too, as I always wear it and whenever I forget to wear it, I feel that something wrong will happen and my day won’t be good.”

Career

Modelling

Vahbiz Dorabjee began her modelling career when she was pursuing her formal education in Pune. There, she took part in many ramp shows and was the first runner-up in Miss Pune. She then took part in a beauty contest organised by Blender’s Pride; she won the contest. It was during her graduation that she got signed up by a modelling agency, which was located in Mumbai.

Dorabjee on the cover page of a magazine during her early modelling years

According to her, she used to travel to Mumbai from Pune to give auditions for appearing in TV commercials. She went on to appear on the cover of many magazines such as Home Maker and Enlighten India.

Vahbiz’s photo on the cover page of Home Maker magazine

Her modelling breakthrough was with the ad for Samsung. Her posters and placards were erected not only in Mumbai but in different parts of the country.

Acting

TV Serials

Vahbiz made her acting debut in the television industry with the 2010 Hindi show Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahani. In the show, she appeared as a character named Panchi Dobriyal. Her character gained immense popularity among the fans of the show and earned her an award in the Best Supporting Role category. She, however, quit the show in 2011. She spoke of it, in an interview, and said,

I’ve been shooting for almost one and a half year now and it has been very stressful. I wanted a break. Furthermore, I was not happy with my track in the show and told my creative team that I wanted to quit.”

Vahbiz Dorabjee in a still from Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahani

In 2013, she appeared in Saraswatichandra, a StarPlus show. In the same year, she essayed the character Vishkamini in the Life OK show Savitri – Ek Prem Kahani. Vahbiz was seen in the 2016 Life OK TV show Bahu Hamari Rajni Kant as a character named Maggi.

Vahbiz in a still from Saraswatichandra

Web Series

She made her OTT debut with the 2020 Hungama Play mini-series Kashmakash: Kya Sahi Kya Galat. She appeared as Indu in the series.

Vahbiz Dorabjee on the poster of Kashmakash: Kya Sahi Kya Galat

In 2018, she, along with Pankit Thakker, an actor and entrepreneur, started a business talk show titled Showbiz with Vahbiz on YouTube. In 2021, she was seen in Hiccups and Hookups in which she essayed the role of a character named Shabana.

Influencer, Blogger, and YouTuber

Vahbiz started her YouTube channel, Say It Loud with Vahbiz, on 31 October 2019. On her channel, she has uploaded many blogging videos related to fashion and travel. On her Instagram account, she often uploads content related to fashion and beauty. She has also advertised for various brands on her social media accounts. As of February 2024, she has more than 1.1 million followers on Instagram and more than 2.5 million followers on Facebook.

Entrepreneur

In 2017, Vahbiz and Pankit Thakker established an event management company in Mumbai. The company has organised and hosted numerous events for luxury brands. On 1 September 2020, Vahbiz became a designated partner in Dorabjee’s Wellness.

Awards

• In January 2024, Vahbiz was presented with the Trendsetter Award in the entertainment and television category by Times Applaud.
  

  A photo of Vahbiz Dorabjee taken with her Trendsetter Award

• In November 2023, she won the IBA Award.
  

  Vahbiz with her IBA Award

• In 2023, Vahbiz Dorabjee received the Dadasaheb Phalke Indian Television Award.
  

  Vahbiz Dorabjee posing for a photo with her Dadasaheb Phalke Indian Television Award

• In 2022, she won the Universal India Award in the Best Fashion Blogger category.
  

  Vahbiz posing for a photo with her Universal India Award

• In the same year, Dorabjee was awarded the Women Iconza Award in the Best Fashion Blogger and Actress category.
  

  Vahbiz Dorabjee posing for a photo with her Women Iconza Award

• In 2017, she was given the Times Food Award by Bombay Times.
  

  Vahbiz Dorabjee receiving the Times Food Award

• In the same year, Vabbiz received a certificate of appreciation and the Inspiring Woman of the Year Award at the Nirbhaya Nari Shakti Awards.
  

  Vahbiz Dorabjee’s certificate of appreciation

Bike Collection

She owns a Honda Africa Twin 1200.

A photo of Vahbiz Dorabjee with her bike

Car Collection

She owns a Honda Civic.

Vahbiz standing in front of her Honda Civic

Favourites

• Lipstick Shade: Red

• Colour(s): Black, Pink, Red

• Beverage: Coffee

• Actresses: Vidya Balan, Konkona Sen, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Alia Bhatt

• Clothing Brands: Guess, Zara, Forever New

• Street Food: Pani Puri

• Food: Homemade food

• Sea Food: Prawns

• Perfumes: Ricci Ricci Women by Nina Ricci Eau De

• Quotes: “Live n Let Live,” “Kuch To Log Kahenge, Logon Ka Kaam Hai Kehna”

• Fashion Designer: Manish Malhotra

• Shows: Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, Bigg Boss, Koffee With Karan

• Holi Song: Balam Pichkari from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013)

• Holiday Destination: Goa, Bangkok, London

Facts/Trivia

• Her name is also spelled as Vahbbiz Dorabjee.

• Her friends and family members affectionately refer to her as Vabhz, Vahbzu, and Sweetu.

• In her school days, Vahbiz Dorabjee learned Kathak for five years and even won several accolades in school events. She has attended many dance schools, including The Danceworx by Ashley Lobo.

• Vahbiz has been passionately following her hobby of writing since she was in school. She also used to play basketball when in school.
  

  A photo of a piece of work written by Vahbiz during her school days

• According to her, she had no intentions of becoming an actor, but she decided to act as she believed that modelling was not giving her ample opportunities. It was modelling for Samsung that caught the eye of the producers of the show Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahani.

• Vahhbiz gained weight due to hyperthyroidism and diabetes in 2010. She undertook functional training and lost 10 kg. She once again gained weight after separating from Vivian in 2016. She was trolled a lot for it by the netizens. She lost 15 kg after undergoing intermittent fasting (fasting for 16 hours) and exercising. In an interview, she talked about it and said,
  

  I have been struggling with my health since ages now. I always keep on trying something or the other as I have gone through lots of ups and downs and through a lot of havoc in my body. I did Yoga for a while, then I did gymming also for sometime, but I got bored because of the same routine. I then decided to take up dancing and I love it.”

  

  A before and after weight loss photo of Vahbiz Dorabjee

• In an interview, she expressed her desire to participate in the celebrity dance-reality TV show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa.

• She follows a non-vegetarian diet.
  

  An Instagram post uploaded by Vahbiz Dorabjee

• Vahabbiz is a travel enthusiast, and she has been to many places.
  

  Vahbiz’s photo taken when she was in Canada

• She passionately follows her hobby of dancing.

• Vahbiz has often been seen partying in clubs.
  

  Vahbiz Dorabjee’s photo taken in a club

• In 2017, Vahbiz was invited as a guest judge to the beauty pageant Mr and Miss Delhi NCR.
  

  A poster of Mr & Miss Delhi NCR

• In an interview, Vahbiz revealed that neither she drinks alcohol nor does she smokes cigarettes. She talked about it and said,
  

  I don’t like boozing, smoking, or any other thing for that matter. I know it’s hard for people to believe, but that’s one myth people have about me.”

• She is an avid pet lover and owns many dogs and cats as pets.
  

  Vahbiz Dorabjee posing with her pet cats and dog

• The Royale Heritage Mall at the NIBM Road in Pune belongs to her parents.
  

  A photo of Dorabjee’s Royale Heritage Mall in Pune

• Vahbiz’s mother was once crowned Miss Pune.

• While filing for a divorce with Vivian, Vahbiz reportedly claimed that she was physically assaulted by him several times. ^[6]India News

• In 2019, Vahbiz Dorabjee was rumoured to have demanded Rs. 2 crore alimony from Vivian Dsena. However, in April 2019, she refuted the allegations on social media and requested netizens to stop trolling her. ^[7]Voice For Men

• In 2021, a media house circulated edited pictures of Vahbiz, claiming that she had gained weight again. However, Vahbiz took to social media and refuted the claims.
  

  Vahbiz’s Instagram post on the fake pictures that a media house circulated in 2021

• In an interview, she revealed that her father wanted her to join his construction business and take over it.

• She has promoted various brands on her social media accounts.

• Had Vahbiz Dorabjee not been an actor and model, she would have been a fashion designer.

• She has also participated in the celebrity cricket tournament named Box Cricket League (BCL). She was a member of the Chennai Swaggers.
  

  Vahbiz Dorabjee (second from the left) during a BCL photoshoot

Rohan Nautiyal

A content writer, editor, and proofreader with over three years of experience in producing well-researched, user-friendly content that simplifies complex information for readers, helping brands to enhance their online presence.

Qamar Javed Bajwa is a retired four-star general of the Pakistan Army who served as the 10th Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) from 2016 to 2022. He is one of the most prominent figures in Pakistan. He was mentioned in the Forbes list of the World’s Most Powerful People in 2018.

Wiki/Biography

Qamar Javed Bajwa was born on Friday, 11 November 1960 (age 63 years; as of 2023) in Karachi, Sindh Province, Pakistan. His zodiac sign is Scorpio. He completed his intermediate and secondary studies at the F. G. Sir Syed College and the Government Gordon College in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. In 1978, at 18, he was selected to join the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) in Kakul, Abbottabad, where he underwent a military training module till 1980.

A photo of General Qamar Javed Bajwa taken when he was in the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA)

As a Pakistan Army officer, Bajwa has studied at various national and international institutes such as the Canadian Army Command and Staff College, the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California, United States, and the National Defence University (NDU) in Islamabad. According to sources, Bajwa excelled in his studies in school as well as in the military.

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 6′ 1″

Weight (approx.): 90 kg

Hair Colour: Salt and Pepper

Eye Colour: Dark Brown

Family & Caste

Qamar Javed Bajwa belongs to a Punjabi Jat Muslim family of the Bajwa clan in Gakhar Mandi, Punjab. ^[1]The Indian Express

Parents & Siblings

His father, Muhammad Iqbal Bajwa, served in the Pakistan Army as a colonel. He passed away in 1967 while he was posted in Quetta, Balochistan. His mother passed away in 2013 due to age-related causes. He has an elder brother who lives in the UK and works for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).

A photo of General Bajwa taken with his mother

Wife & Children

His wife’s name is Ayesha Amjad.

General Bajwa with Ayesha Amjad in his office

The couple has two sons, Saad Siddique Bajwa, and Ali Iqbal Bajwa. Saad is a lawyer and a businessman who has served as the legal counsel at Emirates. He is married to Mahnoor Sabir, who was named in the 2022 embezzlement case. Ali is a petroleum engineer and a corporate employee.

A photo of Saad Bajwa taken during his marriage ceremony

General Bajwa’s son Ali Bajwa with his mother

Other Relatives

His father-in-law, Ijaz Amjad, was a major general in the Pakistan Army. His father-in-law’s brother, Iftikhar Khan Janjua, was a major general in the army who was killed in a chopper crash during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War.

A photo of Iftikhar Khan Janjua

Religion

Qamar Javed Bajwa follows Islam and belongs to the Sunni sect. Following his appointment as the COAS of the Pakistan Army, many people claimed that he belonged to the Ahmadiyya sect, which is considered a “non-Muslim minority sect” in Pakistan. According to the Constitution of Pakistan, any defence personnel who is not a Shia or a Sunni cannot hold the post of the Chief. ^[2]The Indian Express

General Bajwa reciting Namaaz during an event

Signature/Autograph

Signature of Qamar Javed Bajwa

Career

Early Career

On 24 October 1980, Qamar Javed Bajwa completed his training at PMA (62nd Long Course) and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the 16th Battalion of the Baloch Regiment. After commissioning, he was sent to Sialkot, where he served for a few years. In October 1981, Javed received a promotion and became a lieutenant. He became a captain in 1983. Following his promotion to major in November 1987, Bajwa was sent on a deputation to Kashmir. In 1992, he was posted to the 5th Battalion of the Northern Light Infantry (NLI). During his time with the 5 NLI on the Line of Control, he learned about the Indian Army and its strategies. He then participated in several discussions and wrote many articles about it. Later, he was posted to Rawalpindi, where he served as a Staff Officer (SO) in the X Corps.

A photo of General Bajwa with his wife and sons taken when he was a young major

In April 1997, Bajwa became a lieutenant colonel and served as the General Staff Officer (GSO) in the same corps. In September 2002, Bajwa was promoted to the rank of colonel following which he commanded a unit of the Baloch Regiment. In 2003, he was selected to be part of the Pakistani contingent in a United Nations (UN) mission to Africa. He went on to command the Pakistan Armed Forces-Africa Command in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

A photo of General Qamar Javed Bajwa taken when he was serving in the United Nations

Bajwa became a brigadier in April 2004. He was then appointed as the commandant of the School of Infantry and Tactics in Quetta, Balochistan. He has also served as an instructor in the Command and Staff College in Quetta. In 2007, he was once again sent to the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he served as the commander of a UN brigade under the former Indian Army Chief General Bikram Singh. According to sources, Bikram Singh commended Bajwa’s ways of leading the soldiers and called him a “professional” commander. Singh said,

In the UN operations, Gen Bajwa’s performance was totally professional and outstanding. A military officer’s conduct in the international environment is different from the way he conducts himself back home. There, he is governed by his country’s national interests.”

A photo of General Bajwa with General Bikram Singh during his tenure in the UN

In May 2009, Bajwa was appointed as a major general. Thereafter, he was sent to Gilgit-Baltistan, where he served as the commander of the Force Command Northern Areas (FCNA). He was then sent to Islamabad. There, he became an instructor at the National Defence University (NDU).

A photo Bajwa taken while he was serving as a Major General

In August 2013, Bajwa became a lieutenant general after which he became the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Chaklala-based X Corps. This corps is one of the most vital fighting formations of the Pakistan Army as it is deployed on the Line of Control (LoC). During his tenure, the Corps took part in the 2013 and 2014 skirmishes with India, which resulted in many troops dead and wounded on both sides. In 2014, he was appointed as the Colonel Commandant of the Baloch Regiment. After completing his tenure as GOC X Corps in October 2015, Bajwa was sent to the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, where he served as Inspector General Training and Evaluation (IG T&E) till his appointment as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS). As an IG, he also served as the Principal Staff Officer (PSO) of Raheel Sharif, the former Pakistan Army Chief.

Qamar Javed Bajwa with General Raheel Sharif while serving as the Commander of the X Corps

Work As COAS

On 26 November 2016, the Government of Pakistan announced the appointment of Qamar Javed Bajwa as the 10th Army Chief of Pakistan. He reportedly took over the post by superseding four senior army officers. According to sources, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif accepted his appointment due to Bajwa’s apolitical nature and pro-democracy views. Another reason behind his selection was cited as his ability to strike a balance between the civil and the military authorities.

A photo of Qamar Javed Bajwa taken while he was taking over as the COAS from General Raheel Sharif

Soon after he took over, two major militant attacks took place in Pakistan which resulted in the death and destruction of man and material. Under his leadership, the Pakistan Army launched two major counter-insurgency operations named Operation Radd-ul-Fasaad and Khyber-4 in 2017. He has always considered religious extremism as a threat to the peace and development of Pakistan. As an Army Chief, many countries, including the US, the UK, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, have invited him to address committees and military gatherings. As per sources, Bajwa managed to retain good ties with the US militarily when the inter-government ties between the two countries were at their lowest.

General Bajwa with General John Nicholson of the US Army

He also played an instrumental role in constructing a fence along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, also known as the Durand Line. For this, he met the President of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani.

General Bajwa with Ashraf Ghani in Afghanistan

In 2018, he visited China, where he met the Chinese authorities and conducted a discussion on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). During the discussion, Bajwa assured the Chinese that the project would not be impacted due to the political crisis and terrorism in the country.

A photo of General Bajwa taken in Beijing

In August 2019, Bajwa was set to retire; however, Prime Minister Imran Khan extended his tenure till 2022 citing a “National Emergency.” However, the Supreme Court of Pakistan put a stay on the extension and asked the Federal government to pass a bill in the parliament to extend Bajwa’s tenure.

A photo of the official notification issued by the Government of Pakistan on Bajwa’s extension

In April 2022, Bajwa, while addressing a conference in Islamabad claimed that due to faulty policies of the country, it had become overly dependent on China. In 2022, Bajwa reportedly held a secret meeting with the Indian National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval following which a ceasefire on the Line of Control (LoC) was put into effect. ^[3]Hindustan Times He retired from the service in November 2022 and was succeeded by General Asim Munir.

Qamar Javed interacting with the troops of the Pakistan Army deployed at the LOC

Criticism Received By Bajwa

In her book, Dying to Serve: Militarism, Affect, and the Politics of Sacrifice in the Pakistan Army, Maria Rashid wrote that even though Bajwa worked well in certain areas, he did not address the divide in the Pakistan Army. She also claimed that the internal rift has also led to a downfall in the army’s credibility among the general public. In an interview, she said,

General Bajwa miscalculated and underestimated the cracks within his own establishment. He acted too late and also perhaps does not seem to have the stomach to ‘quash’ the rebellion within. For the first time perhaps, the cracks within the military, even though they existed before, are being filtered through the concerns of a mainstream political party, the PTI.”

It is also claimed by many sources that despite launching many anti-terrorist operations, the Pakistan Army, under his leadership, failed to contain terrorism and that terrorism increased manifold in the country.

The Bajwa Doctrine

Bajwa outlined several key military terms during the Munich Security Conference in February 2018. In his address, he talked about “biting back hard” against the threats posed by the then-Donald Trump-led US Government. Following the address, the London-based Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) gave this doctrine the name of the Bajwa Doctrine. In doctrine, he also talked about the creation of a stable democracy to eliminate terrorism, strengthening the law and order situation in Pakistan, working on uplifting Afghanistan to end cross-border terrorism, and amalgamating terrorists and militants into the society after their surrender. A second part of the doctrine was released in March 2021 during the Islamabad Security Dialogue. It focused on four themes: an enduring peace internal and external to Pakistan, non-interference in the internal affairs of neighbouring and regional countries, building intra-regional trade and connectivity, and bringing sustainable development via investment and economic hubs within the region.

A photo of General Bajwa taken in Munich, Germany, where he delivered a speech

Controversies

Allegations of Violating Official Secrets Act (OSA)

In 2023, Islamabad High Court issued a warrant against Bajwa, a senior Pakistan Army officer, and two journalists for violating OSA. According to sources, Bajwa gave an interview to two journalists after retirement in which he discussed the no-confidence motion against Imran Khan in 2022, civil-military relations, and the role of retired Pakistan military officers in politics. The petitioner claimed that a case for treason and inciting mutiny in the armed forces should be registered against Bajwa and the other accused. ^[4]DAWN

Allegations of Amassing Billions of Dollars of Net Worth as COAS

In 2022, a few weeks before Bajwa’s retirement, several tax documents of General Bajwa and his family members were leaked in the media. According to the reports, within six years of his tenure as the army chief, Bajwa’s family members, including his wife, son – Saad, Saad’s wife, and his father-in-law accumulated over Rs. 12 billion. The family reportedly invested and started numerous businesses in Pakistan and abroad. Bajwa also edited his IT returns thrice during his six-year-long tenure; whereas, an officer has to file ITR once before becoming a service chief. After the reports leaked, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar ordered an investigation into the circulation of the reports claiming it to be “violative of the complete confidentiality of tax information that the Law provides.” The media wing of the Pakistan Armed Forces, ISPR, also refuted the claims, calling the allegations false and baseless. ^[5]The Economic Times

Allegations of Masterminding A Journalist’s Murder

In 2022, the mother of a murdered journalist named Arshad Sharif wrote a letter to the Supreme Court of Pakistan’s Chief Justice, claiming senior Pakistan Army officers, including General Bajwa, played an active role in the murder of her son. She further said that earlier, Sharif shared a good bond with the Pakistan Army; however, after he began exposing the involvement of the Pakistan military in various issues, he began receiving warnings from the ISI. She wrote,

Sharif was close to the army, covering many of their operations against militants. He became critical of certain individuals in the army for their involvement in politics and forced disappearances. This is when he started receiving threats, first from Brigadier Muhammad Shafiq Malik of ISPR…and then from Brigadier Fahim Raza of ISI who called him to ISI Sector HQ Islamabad to convey the message of Major General Faisal Naseer, DG – C, ISI.”

The letter written by Sharif’s mother to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Pakistan

In total, 15 FIRs on sedition and treason were filed against Sharif in different parts of the country following which he fled the country to Nairobi, Kenya, where he was reportedly killed by the ISI. ^[6]South Asia Press

Allegations By A Retired Pakistan Army Major Adil Raja

In December 2022, Major Adil Raja, a retired Pakistan Army soldier, claimed in a video that General Qamar Javed Bajwa not only used top Pakistani actresses to honey-trap Pakistani politicians and other influential people but also used to spend “nights” with the actresses in ISI safe houses. ^[7]News18 However, later, several actors in Pakistan criticised Adil for making “false allegations.” A senior Pakistan Army officer also filed a defamation case against Adil in a UK court. ^[8]The Friday Times

Bajwa’s Alleged Statement on Pakistan Military’s Readiness

In 2021, journalist Hamid Mir conducted a show in which he claimed that during a closed-door conference in the Foreign Office, Bajwa revealed that the reason for seeking a ceasefire with India was that Pakistan was not ready to handle military escalation with India due to monetary constraints. He also said that India’s military preparedness was far superior to that of the Pakistan military. Mir further claimed that Bajwa wanted PM Narendra Modi to come to Pakistan and had even talked about it with NSA Ajit Doval in a secret meeting in a Gulf country. After the revelation, Bajwa received severe criticism from journalists and politicians. Some even called for lodging a complaint against him for sedition and treason. Prime Minister Imran Khan also criticised Bajwa and said that he had claimed even worse things whenever he visited the Prime Minister’s Office. Imran, in an interview, said,

Since this matter is related to national security, I don’t want to say anything that would become news for international media as it would be detrimental to Pakistan.”

Later, DG-ISPR, the Pakistan military’s media wing, issued a clarification on the issue and said that Bajwa’s comments were taken out of context and presented to the public after distorting them. ^[9]DAWN

Allegations of Meddling with Elections

In 2018, the Pakistan Army, under Bajwa’s command, was accused of influencing the election results in the 2018 general elections. The elections were termed by BBC as the “dirtiest elections in Pakistan’s history.” ^[10]BBC The army allegedly helped Imran Khan’s PTI party register a victory over Nawaz Sharif’s PML(N). ^[11]Foreign Affairs Later, the citizens of Pakistan began demanding the resignation of Sardar Raza Khan, the CEC. He, however, refuted the claims of any sort of rigging. He was supported by the European Union which claimed that the 2018 election process was an improvement over the elections held in the past. Thereafter, a recounting was conducted in 94 constituencies in which Imran’s party emerged as the largest party.

Nawaz Sharif’s Allegations Against Bajwa

In 2017, after getting removed from the post of the Prime Minister of Pakistan and going into a self-imposed exile in London, Nawaz Sharif gave an interview in which he claimed that he was removed from power through a conspiracy by General Bajwa and two judges of the Supreme Court. ^[12]The Economic Times Nawaz was reportedly removed from the post due to his name being mentioned in the Panama papers. However, Bajwa later claimed in front of a parliamentary committee of playing no role in the conspiring against the Prime Minister. ^[13]The Economic Times In 2023, Prime Minister Imran Khan supported Nawaz’s claims and said that when Bajwa was chief of the army, he sent two brigadiers outside of Pakistan to plant evidence to prove Nawaz’s involvement in corruption. ^[14]NDTV Imran, in an interview, said,

He (Bajwa) had sent two brigadiers who proved Nawaz was involved in the Panama case. This is why Nawaz is not forgiving Bajwa.”

Declining Freedom of Journalists

Many sources have claimed that after Bajwa took over the command of the Pakistan Army, the freedom of journalists was curtailed. This was because the ISI reportedly abducted and killed journalists who went against the wishes of the armed forces and criticised them. ^[15]South Asia Press

Fallout With Imran Khan

According to sources, Imran Khan was supported by the Pakistan Army to take over the office of the Prime Minister by sidelining Nawaz Sharif and Asif Ali Zardari. After taking over the office, Imran initially supported General Bajwa’s political ambitions and even safeguarded him numerous times. It was during Imran’s tenure as the PM that he granted a three-year extension to Bajwa. ^[16]India Today Following Imran’s removal from the office, he, in an interview, said that giving Bajwa an extension was the biggest mistake of his life. He also accused Bajwa of playing “double games.” While giving an interview, Bajwa said,

I did not get to know how the lies were spoken and I was betrayed. Gen Bajwa was playing a double game and I discovered later that even PTI’s members were being given different messages. I would believe in everything General Bajwa would tell me because our interests were the same… that we had to save the country.”

Reportedly, the duo fell out of favour with each other over a series of issues such as fostering closer ties with India and Israel, resuming trade with various non-Muslim countries, and appointment of the Director General of the ISI. In 2022, in his farewell speech, General Bajwa acknowledged the role played by the army in influencing the elections and policy-making of the government. He also claimed that the Pakistan Army has stopped interfering in political issues. ^[17]DAWN He said,

In my opinion, the reason for this is the constant meddling by the army in politics for the last 70 years, which is unconstitutional. That is why, since February last year, the military has decided they will not interfere in any political matter. The reality is that in Pakistan, institutions, political parties and civil society – they have all made mistakes.” ^[18]Al Jazeera

In 2023, Khan claimed that for exposing the nexus between the Pakistan Army and several politicians, Bajwa wanted to have him killed. ^[19]WION Imran has also been criticised for taking a “U-turn” as he had criticised Nawaz when he claimed Bajwa’s hand in his removal from the post of the PM. In 2023, Imran Khan claimed that Bajwa tried to put pressure on him to start a dialogue with India. ^[20]The Times of India Imran talked about it, in an interview, and said,

Gen Bajwa wanted me to develop friendly ties with India. He put pressure on me for this and it was one of the reasons our relationship deteriorated.”

General Bajwa with Imran Khan during an event

Military Decorations

Pakistani Medals

• Tamgha-e-Azm (Medal of Conviction) (2018)

• Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military) (Order of Excellence) (2016)

• Hilal-i-Imtiaz (Military) (Crescent of Excellence) (2011)

• Tamgha-e-Diffa (General Service Medal) with Siachen Glacier Clasp

• Command & Staff College Quetta Instructor’s Medal

• Tamgha-e-Istaqlal Pakistan (Escalation with India Medal) (2002)

• Tamgha-e-Baqa (Nuclear Test Medal) (1998)

• Tamgha-e-Salgirah Pakistan (Independence Day Golden Jubilee Medal) (1997)

• Qarardad-e-Pakistan Tamgha (Resolution Day Golden Jubilee Medal) (1990)

• Jamhuriat Tamgha (Democracy Medal) (1988)

• Hijri Tamgha (Hijri Medal) (1979)
  

  A photo of General Qamar Javed Bajwa with all his medals on his uniform

Foreign Medals

• The Order of Bahrain 1st Class (2021)
  

  A photo of Bajwa taken while he was receiving the Order of Bahrain

• GUSP Medal For Merit from Russia (2018)

• Turkish Legion of Merit (2017)
  

  A photo of General Bajwa with a Turkish General receiving the Turkish Legion of Merit

• The Order of Military Merit from Jordan (2017)
  

  General Bajwa receiving the Jordanian Order of Military Merit

• United Nations MONUC Medal (2003 & 2007)

• Order of King Abdul Aziz (1st Class)
  

  A photo of Bajwa taken after he won the Order of King Abdul Aziz medal in Saudi Arabia

Assets & Properties

Movable Assets

• Deposits in Banks: Rs. 22,70,000

• Jewellery: Rs. 7,00,000

• Others (Furniture Items): Rs. 5,00,000

Immovable Assets

• Non-Agricultural Land: Rs. 85,00,000

Note: The given estimates are according to the year 2013. It excludes the assets and properties owned by his wife and children.

Net Worth

General Qamar Javed Bajwa’s net worth in 2013 was estimated to be Rs. 1,19,70,000. It excludes the net worth of his wife and children.

Favourites

• Sport: Cricket

• Cricketers: Javed Miandad, Viv Richards

• Singer: Noor Jehan

• Music Genre: Indian Classical

Facts/Trivia

• He also goes by the name Qamar Ahmed Bajwa. ^[21]The New Indian

• Qamar Javed Bajwa passionately follows his hobby of reading. According to his son Saad, he developed this hobby after joining the army. He likes to read about contemporary European history.

• Cricket is his favourite sport. He used to play cricket in school as a wicketkeeper. He also likes field hockey.
  

  Bajwa holding a hockey stick

• According to sources, when Bajwa was a major general, he used to send a private jet to the UK to bring his kids home on vacations from the UK, where they were studied.

• It is claimed that after the Army Public School terror attack in Peshawar in 2014, Qamar Bajwa kept the photos of the killed children in his office to work more efficiently towards eliminating terrorism in the country.

• In 2017, General Bajwa was spotted dining at a restaurant without any security, despite several threats issued by terrorist organizations as the Pakistan Army, under his leadership, had launched numerous counter-terrorism operations.

• In 2018, General Qamar Javed Bajwa was ranked 68 on the list of Most Powerful People in the World by Forbes. ^[22]Forbes

• In 2021, a court of inquiry was initiated against the son of a retired major general of the Pakistan Army who wrote a letter to General Bajwa criticising him for asking Imran to extend his tenure as COAS.

• In 2022, while addressing a military conference in Rawalpindi, Bajwa claimed that the 1971 war with India was not lost because of the military but because of the political leaders of Pakistan. He also targeted the civilian government for the downfall of Pakistan’s economy. ^[23]The Siasat Daily

• In 2023, a video surfaced on the internet in which an Afghan man was seen verbally abusing Qamar Javed Bajwa and his wife while they were on vacation in France.

• In an interview in 2023, General Qamar Javed Bajwa claimed that General Raheel Sharif tried to extend his service as an army chief for three years to supersede Bajwa and not allow him to become the chief. ^[24]Outlook

• It is claimed that Qamar Bajwa asked several senior journalists, who are good friends of PM Imran Khan, to persuade him to align his actions with the wishes of the Pakistan Army.

• General Qamar Javed Bajwa owns a lot of land in Pakistan. He owns a 600-yard plot in Lahore, a 1 kanal plot in Rawalpindi, a 2 kanal plot in Lahore, and a 1 marla plot in Lahore.

Rohan Nautiyal

A content writer, editor, and proofreader with over three years of experience in producing well-researched, user-friendly content that simplifies complex information for readers, helping brands to enhance their online presence.

Mohan Bhagwat is an Indian veterinary doctor, author, and Hindu political activist, who is the sixth head, also known as the Sarsanghchalak, of the Hindu far-right voluntary organisation named the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He hit the headlines in January 2024 after he became one of the few personalities invited by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to be present in the Garbha Griha of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

Wiki/Biography

Mohan Madhukar Rao Bhagwat was born on Monday, 11 September 1950 (age 73 years; as of 2023) in Chandrapur, Bombay State (now Maharashtra), India. However, some sources claim that he was born in Sangli, Bombay State (now Maharashtra), India. His zodiac sign is Virgo. Bhagwat did his schooling at the Lokmanya Tilak Vidyalaya in Chandrapur. He then enrolled at the Janata College in Chandrapur, where he pursued a bachelor’s degree in science for a year. He later enrolled at Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth in Akola to pursue a bachelor’s degree in veterinary sciences and animal husbandry. Thereafter, he joined the Nagpur Veterinary College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in veterinary sciences. After this, he began pursuing a master’s degree in veterinary sciences but left his post-graduate studies mid-way in 1975 during the emergency.

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 6″

Hair Colour: White (semi-bald)

Eye Colour: Dark Brown

Family & Caste

Mohan Bhagwat belongs to a Marathi Karhade Brahmin family in Chandrapur, Maharashtra.

Parents & Siblings

His father, Madhukar Rao Bhagwat, was a civil engineer and a lawyer, who was among the earliest members of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He initially served as a Pracharak in Gujarat and went on to become President of the RSS in the Chandrapur district. He also served as the regional promoter of the RSS in Gujarat.

Madhukar Rao Bhagwat’s photo

His mother, Malati Bhagwat, also known as Malati Bai, served in the women’s wing of the RSS. He has two brothers and a sister. He is the eldest among them. His brother, Chittaranjan Bhagwat, served as an officer in the Bank of Maharashtra in Pune. His other brother, Ravindra Bhagwat, is a lawyer in Chandrapur. His sister lives in Pune.

Wife & Children

Mohan Bhagwat is unmarried and has no kids.

Other Relatives

His grandfather, Nanasaheb Bhagwat, was a close associate of K. B. Hedgewar, the founder of the RSS. He was also a lawyer who left his practice to join the RSS.

Religion/Religious Views

Mohan Bhagwat follows Hinduism. He has often advocated for the creation of a Hindu Rashtra and Akhand Bharat.

Address

He resides at Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Shri Hedgewar Bhavan, Reshimbagh Road, Nagpur – 440001, Maharashtra, India.

Career

Early Career

After completing graduation, he worked as an intern in a government hospital in Chamorshi under Chandrapur Zilla Parishad for six months. Following the completion of his internship, he was offered a job in the same hospital. He then worked there for one and a half years as a Veterinary Extension Officer (VEO) before quitting his job to pursue a master’s degree.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)

Bhagwat left his postgraduate studies and became a member of the RSS in 1975. According to sources, his father played a pivotal role in influencing his decision to join the RSS. He joined the organisation at a time when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had put into effect an emergency in the country. From 1975 to 1977, i.e., till the end of the emergency, he took part in various underground activities and reportedly avoided getting arrested under the Maintainance of Internal Security Act (MISA) numerous times. It was during this time that he showed his organisational and leadership qualities to the appointment holders of the RSS. This led to him being appointed as the pracharak of Nagpur and Vidharba region.

Mohan Bhagwat addressing a gathering during an RSS event

He then relocated to Akola, Maharashtra, where he served as the district RSS pracharak. Later, he was ordered to go to Bihar, where he played a vital role in restructuring and expansion of the organisation. He also served in Gujarat for some time. In 1991, he was given charge of the physical training for RSS cadres as Akhil Bharatiya Sharirik Pramukh (All India Physical Education In-charge). He remained in the post 1999. In the same year, he was given the responsibility of drafting policies for the full-time RSS workers. He has also served as Akhil Bharatiya Pracharak Pramukh.

Mohan Bhagwat during an event with President Pranab Mukherjee

In 2000, Bhagwat was appointed as the General Secretary (Sarkaryawah) of the organisation. He replaced H. V. Seshadri to hold the post. He was re-elected to the post twice, i.e., in 2003 and 2006, respectively. On 21 March 2009, he was appointed as the Sarsanghchalak of the RSS. He became the youngest person to become RSS’ chief. An RSS official, in an interview, said,

The new RSS chief is a straightforward person with a clear vision that the RSS should stay away from party politics. His focus would be to strengthen the organisational structure.”

Under his leadership, the RSS has actively participated in various social and cultural endeavours, including advancing rural development, education, and healthcare. Bhagwat has also supported the “Swadeshi” (indigenous) movement, emphasizing the significance of self-reliance and nationalism in numerous public platforms. Bhagwat is well-known for giving speeches on national, economic, and moral issues. Some of his best-known speeches are National Security and the Role of Citizens (2017), Future of Bharat: An RSS Perspective (2018), and Spirituality in Modern Times (2019). Mohan Bhagwat has travelled extensively to various nations, including the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Nepal, Russia, Belarus, and Indonesia, mainly to engage with the Indian population and participate in conferences and events centred around Hinduism and Indian culture. As of 2023, the RSS has undertaken more than 1,60,000 social work projects worth Rs. 50 crore in different parts of India, especially in the Maoist-impacted areas in Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, and West Bengal. It is reported that the organisation’s presence on social media increased manifold because of his insistence.

Mohan Bhagwat inspecting a parade organised by the RSS

Author

As an RSS Chief, Mohan Bhagwat has written many books such as The Role of Youth in Nation Building (2014), Success Unlimited Using Power of Subconscious Mind (2018), M.S. Golwalkar – His Vision and Mission (2019), Yashasvi Bharat (2020), and Hamari Rashtriyata Aur Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (2023).

Cover page of Yashasvi Bharat

Opinions

Hindu Rashtra

Mohan Bhagwat on numerous occasions has talked about India being a Hindu Rashtra. In September 2023, during an event hosted by RSS, Bhagwat said that India is a Hindu Rashtra whether people of other religions accept it or not. He, however, also stressed that Hinduism teaches us to form good bonds with people from other sects, respect their religion and culture, and live with them in peace and harmony. He further said that India being a Hindu Rashtra will not be a threat to any religion. In 2019, during a press conference, Bhagwat said that India’s status as a Hindu Rashtra is “non-negotiable.” He also said that RSS is not related to only one religion and anyone, who considers themselves an Indian, can join the organisation. ^[1]Hindustan Times ^[2]India Today

His Opinion on The LGBTQ Community

In January 2023, Bhagwat, while giving an interview, extended his support to the LGBTQIA+ community in India. He also recited some incidents mentioned in the Hindu scriptures and said that such people have been existing in the country for a long time. In October 2019, he expressed that the issue can be addressed without conflict, emphasizing that it should be regarded as a “variation” rather than an “abnormality.” He advocated treating individuals with different sexual orientations as equal human beings and integrating them into society. Reportedly, his stand on the issue has softened over time, and before 2014, the RSS did not support the community. ^[3]Firstpost

His View on Population

In 2022, during a rally, Bhagwat gave his opinion on the population explosion in India. He said that while having a big population is good for the growth of the country, it poses a challenge as well. He also urged the Union government to formulate policies to channel population growth. His speech was later scrutinised by former chief election commissioner S. Y. Quraishi who claimed that it was a “balanced opinion” and “did not target one particular sect.” ^[4]The Indian Express

Views on Hinduism And Other Religions

In 2017, while talking to the attendees at an event in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, Bhagwat talked about Hinduism and said that it was the only religion that existed before and all other religions and sects originated from Hinduism only. He also talked about the RSS’ stand on religious conversion and said that even though the organisation is against religious conversion, it is open to accepting anyone who wishes to become a Hindu. He further said,

Hinduism was the only true religion in the world and other religions were just sects which emerged from Hinduism. People hailing from other sects were originally Hindus who had drifted to these sects over the course of time. RSS does not support conversion but our doors are open for those who want to come back to Hinduism from other sects.” ^[5]The Times of India

The Indian Way of Life

In 2016, while addressing the Rashtra Sevika Samiti, the women’s wing of the RSS, on their 80th anniversary, Bhagwat said that the only way to save this planet from destruction is by adopting the Indian way of life. He also stressed upon establishing the “Hindu thought in the character of Bharat.” He also talked about unifying and strengthening the Hindu society in India and outside. ^[6]News18

View on Reservation

In 2015, Mohan Bhagwat gave a statement in which he criticised the provisioning of the reservation system in the country. He called for the establishment of a committee which could review the system and give its recommendation on whether the reservation is needed or not. He, in an interview, talked about it and said,

Form a committee of people genuinely concerned about the interest of the whole nation and committed to social equality… They should decide which categories require reservation, and for how long. Like autonomous commissions, this non-political committee should be the implementation authority; political authorities should supervise them for honesty and integrity.”

He, however, changed his stand on reservation in 2023. During an event, he extended his support to the reservation system. He justified the reservation given to marginalized sects, citing their victimisation for over 2000 years. He further added,

Until we provide them equality, some special remedies have to be there, and reservations is one of them. Hence, reservations have to continue till there is such discrimination. We at the RSS give all support to the reservations provided in the Constitution.” ^[7]The Indian Express

Controversies

Called Out Woke People

In October 2023, Mohan Bhagwat made the headlines after he called woke activists (those activists who are alert to racial prejudice and discrimination) selfish, discriminatory, and deceitful forces. During an event, he attacked the woke people and called them propagandists who were peddling the “Western agenda” in India. He also said that the actions of such people are hurtful to the growth of the country. He also accused them of spreading their propaganda through educational and cultural institutions. He spoke about it and said,

Though these forces wear the mask of some ideology or the other, and claim to be working for some lofty goals, their real objectives are something else… These destructive, all-devouring forces call themselves cultural Marxists or Woke, or the awakened ones. Their modus operandi involve taking control of the media and academia, and plunging education, culture, politics and social environment into confusion, chaos, and corruption.” ^[8]The Indian Express

The “Pandit” Row

Mohan Bhagwat hit the headlines in 2023 after he, during an event, said that god did not create caste, it was the work of the “Pandits” for their gain. This led to an FIR being filed against him for hurting the sentiments of the Brahmin community. However, in his defence, the RSS issued a statement in which it said that Bhagwat’s statement was taken out of context. ^[9]The Hindu The statement read,

He was speaking in Marathi and what he said should be understood in [the] right manner. Mr. Bhagwat had used the word ‘Pandit’ to mean vidvaan, or intellectuals, and he meant that all should deserve the same respect.”

Complaint Against Bhagwat For Hurting Religious Sentiments

In January 2023, a complaint was filed against Bhagwat by a YouTuber and right-wing author named Sandeep Deo. In the complaint, Sandeep claimed that while giving an interview, Bhagwat linked homo sexuality with Hinduism and made derogatory remarks against religious deities like Lord Krishna. Deo also wrote a blog post in which he accused Bhagwat of “justifying an unnatural act like homosexuality through Hindu theology.” The post read,

It seems as if the Sangh is playing into the hands of the invisible forces of the West! Due to the silence of Hindu society on this issue, I had to take this ‘legal stand’. I hope that Bhagwatji and the editors of both the magazines will understand the seriousness of this matter and will publish a rebuttal and apologise for this mistake to the Sanatan Vedic Hindu society.”

Later, another complaint on the same issue was lodged against Bhagwat in Madhya Pradesh. He also received criticism from the netizens. ^[10]The Wire

Sri @sdeo76 has????filed an FIR against @DrMohanBhagwat, @eOrganiser @epanchjanya for his allegedly deliberate and malicious statement outraging and insulting religious feelings of Hindus etc.

Dr Mohan Bhagwat Ji is requested to respect feelings of Hindus & issue a clarification. pic.twitter.com/b8nzVaIjtH

— M. Nageswara Rao IPS (Retired) (@MNageswarRaoIPS) January 24, 2023

All Indians Are Hindus

In December 2019, V. Hanumantha Rao, a senior Telangana Congress leader and former member of the parliament, lodged an FIR against Bhagwat after he, during an event, said that all the people staying in India are Hindus. Hanumantha Rao revealed that the reason for filing a complaint was that he felt that Bhagwat’s statement could lead to communal tension and might create a law and order challenge in India. Rao, in the complaint, wrote,

The statement of Bhagwat not only hurts the sentiments and beliefs of Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Parsis etc, but is also against the spirit and tenor of the constitution of India.” ^[11]The Indian Express

Allegations of Insulting The Indian Army

In February 2018, a lawyer from Bihar filed a complaint against Bhagwat for giving insulting remarks against the Indian Army in public. According to the complainant, Bhagwat claimed that in case of a war, the Indian Army will take six months to get battle-ready, whereas the RSS will be battle-ready within three days. He also said that if the constitution of India permitted the RSS could guard the Line Of Control (LOC) and fight the enemy there. Bhagwat said,

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh is not a military organisation, but we have discipline like the military. If the country requires and the country’s Constitution allows, the RSS is ready to fight on the borders against the enemy.” ^[12]National Herald

However, the RSS later issued a statement clarifying on the issue and saying that Bhagwat’s statement was “taken out of context” and misinterpreted. ^[13]India Today

Complaint Against Bhagwat For Insulting Emperor Ashoka and Buddhism

In July 2016, a complaint was filed against the RSS Chief Bhagwat after an RSS mouthpiece published an article raising questions regarding Emperor Ashoka and his conversion to Buddhism. The article also said that after converting to Buddhism, Ashoka adopted non-violent ways of ruling and the Buddhists worked with the foreign invaders rather than fight against them. An excerpt from the article read,

Ashoka turned the entire empire into a giant monastery for promoting Buddhism. It was because of the Buddhist leaders of Magadha that Greek invaders returned to conquer India…Buddhist monks propagated seditious, senseless, anti-India ideas among their disciples that Buddhism did not believe in caste or nation. Whenever foreign invaders sympathetic to Buddhism attacked India, these Buddhists colluded with them, instead of fighting them bravely.” ^[14]The Indian Express

A court later dismissed the petition against Bhagwat. In 2022, Brahmendra Singh Maurya challenged the court’s dismissal of the plea in a Lucknow court; however, the Lucknow court upheld the previous decision and ruled against Maurya’s plea. ^[15]NDTV

Remarks On Increasing The Hindu Population

While addressing an event in Agra in 2016, Mohan Bhagwat gave a controversial statement asking Hindus to increase their population. He also said that no law disallows Hindus to increase their population as followers of other religions are doing the same. His remark received criticism from politicians. Mohan said,

Which law says that the population of Hindus should not rise? There is nothing like that. What is stopping them when the population of others is rising? The issue is not related to the system. It is because the social environment is like this.” ^[16]The Times of India

Remarks Against Mother Teresa

In 2015, Bhagwat received criticism after he said, during an event, that Mother Teresa used to help the poor and the needy with the intent of converting them to Christianity. He also said that she worked in India with the hidden motive of conversion. Bhagwat said,

Mother Teresa’s service would have been good. But it used to have one objective, to convert the person, who was being served, into a Christian. The question is not about conversion but if this [conversion] is done in the name of service, then that service gets devalued. But here [at the NGO], the objective is purely the service of poor and helpless people.”

Following his remark, he received criticism from many politicians and the netizens. ^[17]India.com

Questioning The Minority Status Given To Some Religions

In 2014, while attending a gathering, Mohan Bhagwat gave a speech in which he said that the RSS does not see Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists as different from Hindus and there is no need to give them minority status. He also criticised the government for giving them minority status. ^[18]The Times of India

Remarks on Sexual Abuse and Marriage

In 2013, Bhagwat made the headlines after he gave a controversial remark about sexual assault and marriage. During an event, Bhagwat said that sexual abuse takes place in “India” and not in “Bharat.” He also said that when women follow the “Western lifestyle” they often get sexually exploited, whereas if they don’t follow that lifestyle, they remain safe. A week after this statement, he said that men should take the traditional role of being the bread earners whereas women should stay at home and be homemakers. He went on to say that men can “abandon” their wives when they violate the traditional agreement. ^[19]India Today Bhagwat said,

A husband and wife are involved in a contract under which the husband has said that you should take care of my house and I will take care of all your needs. I will keep you safe. So, the husband follows the contract terms. Till the time, the wife follows the contract, the husband stays with her, if the wife violates the contract, he can disown her.”

Following his speech, he drew criticism from internet users as well as politicians belonging to different parties.

Bhagwat’s Claims of Speaking With Karkare

In an interview in 2012, Mohan Bhagwat claimed that just five days before the 26/11 Mumbai Attacks, he received a phone call from IPS officer Hemant Karkare, who was killed by terrorists in the Mumbai Attacks. Bhagwat said that Karkare told him that he was under a lot of pressure from the then Central government to frame the names of the right-wing activists in some of the bomb blast cases. He further added,

I told Karkare that the Sangh would not stand in the way of a proper investigation to book all those behind these acts of violence. But I do not think our people are involved, as the RSS is against violence. We have condemned these blasts in strong terms, and the RSS won’t support anyone indulging in such violence.” ^[20]Hindustan Times

Allegations of Involvement in the Malegaon Blasts

In 2009, Dayanand Pandey, the prime accused of the Malegaon blasts, claimed in his confession that RSS leader Shyam Apte had told him that Mohan Bhagwat, along with another RSS leader, had received a huge sum of money from Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to conduct the blasts. Pandey, in an interview, said,

In August 2008, I had gone to Pune where I met with RSS leader Shyam Apte who told me about (Indresh) Kumar (Muslim wing leader of RSS) and Bhagwat taking money from ISI. Lt Col Srikant Purohit, after learning about this, had asked one Captain Joshi to murder the two.” ^[21]Zee News

In 2012, Bhagwat said that the case was “unnecessary” for which he received criticism. In 2017, Sudhakar Chaturvedi, another key accused of the blasts, claimed that when the UPA was in power in power, it built up pressure on Maharashtra ATS to frame RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to appease “Muslim voters.” ^[22]The Times of India

Honours

In 2017, Mohan Bhagwat received an honorary Doctor of Science (DSc) degree from the Maharashtra Animal & Fishery Sciences University during the convocation ceremony held in Nagpur.

A photo of Mohan Bhagwat taken after he was conferred an honourary degree in PhD

Facts/Trivia

• Mohan Bhagwat likes to read. In childhood, he loved reading detective storybooks written by the Marathi author Baburao Arnalkar. A friend of his also said that since the books were rare, they used to share a book and take out time from their schedules to read.

• In an interview, Mohan’s brother Ravindra said that Mohan got deeply involved in theatre and singing and brought many accolades after completing his formal education. He also claimed that the medals and awards were later showcased in their ancestral home in Chandrapur.

• Bhagwat can play drums and flute efficiently. He is also a good singer.

• Mohan became one of the most well-guarded Indians in 2015 after the Government of India granted him a permanent Z+ security cover of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). The government gave him protection following threats to his life made by many banned Islamic outfits.
  

  Z+ security provided to Mohan Bhagwat

• He visited the Rashtrapati Bhavan in 2017 at the invitation of President Pranab Mukherjee. He became the first RSS head to be invited.
  

  Mohan Bhagwat with President Pranab Mukherjee at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi

• In September 2018, during an event in Delhi, Mohan Bhagwat stated that the RSS has updated its views by removing certain outdated sections from M. S. Golwalkar’s “Bunch of Thoughts” to keep up with the changing situations.

• In the same year, a video of his went viral on social media in which he was seen teaching the RSS members how to use a lathi for self-defence.

• In 2019, a post went viral on social media in which it was written that Mohan had accumulated $56,800,000,000,000 as black money. However, many netizens later trolled the media houses that circulated the news.
  

  The list in which Mohan Bhagwat’s name was printed on the top with the black money he allegedly amassed

• Mohan Bhagwat follows a vegetarian diet. He has often advocated for following a vegetarian diet. However, in 2015, Dilip Deodhar, an RSS researcher and author, claimed that before becoming the chief of the RSS, Mohan used to follow a non-vegetarian diet. ^[23]The Economic Times He further talked about it, in an interview, and said,
  

  Till he became the RSS Sarsanghachalak in 2009, Mohan Bhagwat used to enjoy non-vegetarian food. I have also seen Balasaheb Deoras having chicken and mutton openly till he became the RSS chief. Most RSS pracharaks consume non-veg food. There is nothing anti-Hindu about it.”

• He does not consume alcohol or tobacco.

• As the RSS chief, he set an age limit of 75 years for a chief to serve in the organisation.

• In 2020, Mohan supported the Narendra Modi-led Union government’s New Education Policy (NEP).

• Many times, fake news on social media has been circulated in his name. In 2022, a tweet from the X handle “Mohan Bhagwat” went viral which praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s work schedule; however, the tweet was fake and the RSS later clarified that no such tweet was posted by Mohan himself.
  

  A snip of the tweet uploaded on Twitter (now X)

  Similarly, in the same year, another tweet went viral in which Bhagwat had written praises for Rahul Gandhi, calling him the “Future Prime Minister of India.” Later, several fact-checkers proved the claim to be false.

• After becoming the RSS Chief, Bhagwat changed the uniform of the organisation by introducing khaki colour trousers instead of the traditional khaki shorts.
  

  Mohan Bhagwat dressed in the new uniform during an event

• It is claimed that Mohan looks exactly like the founder of the RSS K. B. Hedgewar.
  

  A photo of Mohan Bhagwat and K. B. Hedgewar

• Mohan Bhagwat is multi-linguistic and is fluent in many languages including Hindi, English, Marathi, Bengali, and Sanskrit.

• After joining the RSS, Narendra Modi received training in the RSS under the guidance of Mohan Bhagwat’s father Madhukar Rao Bhagwat. Modi is also a good friend of Mohan.
  

  Mohan Bhagwat with Narendra Modi during the 2014 Lok Sabha election campaigning

• It is claimed that after Mohan Bhagwat came into power in the RSS, he worked on improving the negatively impacted ties between the BJP and the RSS.

• On 22 January 2024, Bhagwat was among the few individuals who were present alongside Prime Minister Modi during the rituals conducted in the garbha griha of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
  

  RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat sitting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the garbha griha during the opening ceremony of the Ram Mandir

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Shibu Soren is an Indian politician, tribal activist, three-time member of the Rajya Sabha, and a member of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM). He has served as a member of Lok Sabha many times. He has also served as the head of the Ministry of Coal. Soren has also served as the chief minister of Jharkhand three times. In May 2018, Soren was appointed the President of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) for the tenth time. Shibu is the father of the Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren. Shibu was one of the accused in the 1975 Chirudih Massacre and the 1994 murder case of Sashi Nath Jha.

Wiki/Biography

Shibu Soren was born as Shivcharan Lal Manjhi on Tuesday, 11 January 1944 (age 80 years; as of 2024) in Nimra Village, Hazaribagh District, Bihar, British India (now in Jharkhand, India). ^[1]Lagatar English His zodiac sign is Capricorn. He did his class 10th at the Md. Yasin Khan High School in Gola, Hazaribagh, Bihar (now in Jharkhand). ^[2]MyNeta During his school days, he lived in a hostel with his younger brother Rajaram. According to sources, Soren left education and became a wood merchant after his father passed. He did so to help his family earn money for their sustenance.

Shibu Soren’s photo taken during his younger days

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 6″

Hair Colour: Salt and Pepper

Eye Colour: Dark Brown

Family & Caste

Shibu Soren belongs to a family from the Santhal tribe in Jharkhand.

Parents & Siblings

His father, Sobran Soren, also known as Sobran Manjhi, was a government school teacher and a philanthropist. He was murdered by thugs working for money lenders when Shibu was a child. According to sources, Shobaran was killed for protesting against the cruelty adopted by the moneylenders to get their money back.

A photo frame of Shibu Soren’s father

His mother’s name is Sonamuni Soren (deceased). His younger brother, Lalu Soren, was a JMM politician and served as the Bokaro District President of the party for 23 years. He even contested the general election twice but lost. He passed away in 2018 due to an age-related illness. His other younger brother, Rajaram Soren, is also a politician of the JMM. He had two more brothers and two sisters.

A photo of Lalu Soren

Wife & Children

His wife, Roopi Soren, also known as Roopi Kisku, is a JMM politician. She was appointed as one of the eight vice presidents of the party in 2023. He got married to her on 1 January 1962.

Shibu Soren with Roopi Soren

The couple had three sons Durga Soren, Hemant Soren, and Basant Soren. Durga Soren was a JMM leader and a member of the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly. He passed away in 2009.

A photo of Hemant Soren’s elder brother Durga Soren

Hemant Soren was the Chief Minister of Jharkhand. Basant is also an MLA in Jharkhand and the president of the Jharkhand Yuva Morcha. His daughter, Anjali Soren, is a JMM politician.

Hemant Soren with his younger sister Anjali Soren

Hemant Soren’s younger brother Basant Soren

Other Relatives

His daughter-in-law, Sita Soren, also known as Sita Murmu, is a JMM politician and an MLA in the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly. She is the wife of Soren’s deceased son Durga Soren.

A photo of Sita Soren

His other daughter-in-law, Kalpana Soren, is a businesswoman. She is the wife of Hemant Soren.

Hemant Soren with his wife Kalpana Soren and their kids

Address

He resides at Sector – 1C, Bokaro Steel City, Bokaro – 827001, Jharkhand, India.

Signature/Autograph

Signature of Shibu Soren

Career

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)

In 1973, JMM was co-founded by Shibu Soren along with the Bengali Marxist trade union leader A. K. Roy and the Kurmi-Mahato leader Binod Bihari Mahato.

A. K. Roy with Shibu Soren during the early days of establishing the JMM

A year later, he was appointed general secretary of the party; he remained in the post till 1986. Under his guidance, the JMM continued the work for the tribals.

A photo of Soren taken during his early political career

The JMM also started several movements to “reclaim the lost tribal lands.” The party also advocated for the creation of the separate state of Jharkhand from Bihar. Soren played a vital role in drafting policies that led to the inclusion of mainly the Other Backward Class (OBC) industrial workers to strengthen its ranks. Later, when Indira Gandhi came to power, Soren began allying with the Indian National Congress (INC). This infuriated some of the young party members who were against Indira. They later left the party and established the All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU). In June 1987, senior leaders of the JMM, including Soren, were invited to the Jharkhand Coordination Committee (JCC); however, the JMM later withdrew citing that “the collective leadership was a farce.” To pressurise the Bihar as well as the Union government to agree to the formation of Jharkhand, Shibu led the JMM in organising many protests and economic blockades in the state. In 1994, he was appointed chairman of the Jharkhand Autonomous Area Council (JAAC).

A photo of Shibu taken during an event organised by the JMM

Electoral Politics

Lok Sabha & Rajya Sabha

Shibu Soren contested his first Lok Sabha elections in 1977. However, he lost the elections. In 1980, he contested the elections from the Dumka constituency independently and emerged victorious. He contested and won the 1989 general elections as a JMM candidate from the same constituency. He was consecutively elected as an MP in 1991 and 1996 as a JMM candidate from the same constituency. In 1998, he was elected to the Rajya Sabha as a JMM candidate from Jharkhand for the first time. He was elected once again as a Rajya Sabha MP in 2002. It was reported that Soren was disqualified as a Rajya Sabha MP in the same year for holding an office of profit by being chairman. He won the Lok Sabha bye-elections held in the Dumka constituency in 2002. He once again became a member of the Lok Sabha in 2004. On 22 May 2004, he was sworn in as a cabinet minister.

The President Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam administering the oath as a cabinet minister to Shibu Soren at a swearing-in ceremony in New Delhi on 22 May 2004

Later, he was appointed as a minister without portfolio. During his tenure as an MP till 2009, he served as the in-charge of the Coal Ministry three times. His first tenure was from 23 May 2004 to 24 July 2004; he resigned from the post after a court issued a warrant against him in the 1975 Chirudih Massacre case. He was made Coal Minister again on 27 November 2004. However, he left the post on 2 March 2005 to take over the office of the Chief Minister of Jharkhand. Shibu was once more handed the coal ministry on 29 January 2006, but he was asked by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to leave the post on 29 November 2006 after he was convicted by a Delhi court of masterminding his Personal Secretary Shashi Nath Jha’s murder.

A photo of Shibu Soren with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh

He was appointed as the Leader of the JMM Parliamentary Party in Lok Sabha in 2008. He was re-elected as an MP in 2009. In the same year, he was appointed as a member of the Committee on Coal and Steel. He was appointed to the Joint Committee on Salaries and Allowances of Members of Parliament as a member in September 2009. In 2014, he contested the Lok Sabha elections from the Dumka constituency and won the elections by receiving a total of 3,35,815 votes. In October 2014, he became a member of the Committee on Food, Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution; he remained on the committee till August 2018. On 22 June 2020, he became a member of the Rajya Sabha for the third time from Jharkhand. On 13 September 2023, he was appointed to the Committee of Labour, Textiles and Skill Development. He will remain an MP till 2026.

A photo of Shibu Soren taken while he was being administered the oath as a member of the Rajya Sabha

Legislative Assembly

He contested and won the 1985 Bihar Legislative Assembly polls from the Jama (ST) constituency as a JMM candidate.

Shibu Soren with Lalu Prasad Yadav

On 2 March 2005, he was made the Chief Minister of Jharkhand; however, he resigned on 11 March 2005 after he failed to obtain a majority in the vote of confidence. From 27 August 2008 to 19 January 2009, Soren once again served as the CM, but his tenure came to an end following the implementation of the President’s Rule in Jharkhand. According to sources, Soren’s family members refused to resign from their seats to pave the way for Shibu to become an MLA and fulfil the constitutional requirement of a CM to be an MLA. This was because Shibu had not contested the assembly polls as he was serving as an MP. The sources also claim that other JMM MLAs also refused to give him their seats citing that “when Shibu’s family members were not willing to give him a seat, why should they?” ^[3]Hindustan In 2009, he was elected as an MLA from the Jamtara constituency. His third tenure as the CM was from 30 December 2009 to 1 June 2010. The tenure ended after the President’s Rule was implemented.

Tribal Activism

His affiliation with activism began at an early age, mainly after the death of his father. He was greatly influenced by a tribal activist named Hori, whose public meetings Soren used to attend. Hori advocated for the separation of Jharkhand from Bihar and tribal rights. Soren initially joined the movement led by Hori; however, he claimed that he never became a member of his organisation. Gradually, Soren’s influence as a tribal leader increased and he began organizing mass protests against the Bihar government for ignoring tribal rights. He also took up the task of reallocating the tribal land, given to mining companies and landlords by the authorities, to their rightful owners. It is also claimed that in the late 60s, Shibu ran a parallel government in the tribal areas of Bihar. His movement was backed by the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist). He spoke about it, in an interview, and said,

Here, we were owners of our fields but attempts were being made to dislodge us. The members of the red parties were with us, so were those of other parties. All of them wanted the people of Jharkhand to get their rights.”

Shibu Soren in his days of movement for Jharkhand State

He was arrested numerous times by the police due to activism. He also led the Dhankati Andolan through which he organised a mass agitation of the tribals to help them get their land back from the zamindars, which the zamindars had reportedly taken through lies and deceit. He also organised a team of Adivasis, which was tasked with protecting women, who had gone to the field of the zamindars to cut the crop, with bow and arrow. This was because the land originally belonged to the tribals and had been forcefully taken from them. The situation escalated into a law and order crisis, resulting in numerous casualties. He also asked his followers to follow decency while getting involved in the movement. He laid down rules that under no circumstances should they harm the family of zamindars or damage their personal property.

An old photo of Shibu Soren (seated) taken when he met the members of a tribe

Santhal Navyuvak Sangh

In 1962, at the age of 18, Shibu Soren established Santhal Navyuvak Sangh through which he raised the issues faced by the tribals in Bihar. He also began attacking the wealthy moneylenders and soon became a fearful person. The tribals began referring to him as a “God.” Thereafter, his group began attacking non-tribals by terming them “outsiders.” The group was also responsible for the 1975 Chirudih village massacre in which 10 people, mostly Muslims, were killed. In 1975, following the implementation of the Emergency, Shibu constructed an ashram in the dense jungles of Pokhra from where he continued operating his Sangh.

A photo of Shibu taken after he started the Sangh in the 60s

Controversies

1974 Kudko Double Murder Case

In April 1974, an FIR was lodged against Shibu and eight others by Bahadur Singh, who claimed in his complaint that Shibu had instigated a mob that murdered two individuals named Khirodar Singh and Chundi Singh after the duo killed a goat in Khudko village. In 1986, while all the other accused were acquitted, Soren was not. In June 2010, Soren was acquitted by a District Court in Jharkhand. ^[4]Rediff

1975 Chirudih Massacre

Chirudih is a village in the Girdih district of Jharkhand. In 1975, a massacre was purportedly organised by Shibu Soren in which 10 people, out of which 9 were Muslims, were killed as they were termed “Diku” which means “outsiders.” The massacre occurred following a fierce confrontation between two groups, one comprising tribals led by Soren, and the other consisting of non-tribals affiliated with the CPI. After the killings, an FIR was lodged in the Narainpur police station in which 69 people were named, including Soren. Allegedly, Lakhindra Soren, one of the accused, stated in his final statement documented by the magistrate at Jamtara Sadar Hospital on 7 February 1975, that “Shibu Soren instructed us to retaliate against Muslims, claiming they were burning the homes of tribals, and suggested we should target them first.” In 1979, a chargesheet was filed by the cops after a thorough investigation. On 1 September 1986, court proceedings against the accused individuals. However, according to sources, Soren failed to appear before the Jamatra court for the proceedings as a result of which the court cancelled his bail and issued an arrest warrant against him. In 2004, the Jamatra court issued several summons, but Soren did not respond to it. Consequently, the court issued an arrest warrant. Thereafter, police officers were sent to take Soren into custody; however, he evaded capture by absconding. He later surrendered in front of the Jamatra court. He was acquitted of all the charges of the massacre in 2010 by a Jharkhand court. ^[5]India Today

Allegations of Taking A Bribe To Vote

In 1993, Soren hit the headlines after he was accused of accepting a bribe to vote in favour of the P. V. Narasimha Rao government in the no-confidence motion. When the matter came out, he claimed immunity from any legal proceedings as he had voted inside the parliament. Later, the case went to the Supreme Court which upheld the right of Soren and the other accused of claiming immunity. However, in September 2022, the Supreme Court said that a bench of judges would look into the case once again to redefine the term “immunity.” ^[6]Outlook

Murder of Shashi Nath Jha

Shashi Nath Jha was the personal secretary of Shibu Soren who was allegedly murdered on the orders of Shibu in 1994. According to sources, Jha was abducted by the loyalists of Soren from the Dhaula Kuan area in Delhi on 22 May 1994 after which he was taken to Ranchi, where he was murdered and buried in a jungle.

A photo of Shashi Nath Jha

After Jha went missing, Amar, his elder brother, filed an FIR at the Parliament Street police station in Delhi. The case was handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) later. By August 1998, all those involved in the murder were taken into custody. Reportedly, Soren went “underground” to evade getting captured as a result of which the CBI had to search for him in Delhi and Jharkhand. He surrendered in court after a final show cause notice was issued against him. The case then began in a Special Court in New Delhi. ^[7]DNA During the trial, the CBI claimed that Jha was murdered as he was aware of a secret deal between the JMM and the INC to support the Narasimha Rao-led Union government during the no-confidence motion in 1993. It also said that one of Soren’s relatives, a JMM activist, was sexually assaulted by Jha. ^[8]Rediff In 2006, the court, in its judgement, gave life imprisonment to Shibu Soren along with four others. The CBI was in favour of the court awarding a death penalty to Soren for his involvement in the murder. The CBI, in its plea, presented the examples of the Parliamentary Attack in 2001 and the Rajiv Gandhi Assassination case in 1991 in which the conspirators were executed. ^[9]Hindustan Times Following the sentencing, Soren appealed against the Special Court’s order in the Delhi High Court, which, in its 2007 judgement, reversed the judgement and acquitted Soren. The court also criticised the CBI for not presenting evidence that supported Soren’s involvement in the murder. ^[10]Mumbai Mirror The court said,

We set aside the order of the trial court. the CBI was not able to prove that the body exhumed was that of Jha. The trial court’s order is far from convincing.”

After this, the CBI and Jha’s family members filed a petition in the Supreme Court, challenging the order of the court. However, in 2018, the Supreme Court upheld the decision of the High Court. ^[11]The Hindu

Allegations of Having Ties With A Militant Organisation

In 2008, the former Chief Minister of Jharkhand Babulal Marandi claimed in an interview that Soren was in touch with the head of the Jharkhand Liberation Tigers (JLT), which was a banned organisation. Marandi, while talking about it in an interview, said,

There are several instances when extremists after being caught by the police have revealed their connections with various political leaders in the State but nothing has been done.”

After the arrest of Lorence Mundari alias Carlos, a member of the People’s Liberation Front of India (PLFI), he stated before the media that Soren was in touch with the chief of the JLT. However, in Shibu’s defence, the Chief Minister’s Office issued a statement in which it claimed that the claims were baseless and were being peddled to malign the image of the CM. ^[12]The Economic Times

Calling Maoists His Brothers and Sisters

He once again hit the headlines in 2008 after he said that he considered Maoists as his brothers and sisters during an elections rally. According to sources, Soren gave the statement as he was contesting the legislative assembly bye-elections at Tamar, which was considered to be a stronghold of the Maoists. He received criticism from many politicians for his remark. ^[13]India Today In an interview, Soren talked about it and said,

Nor are they cats or dogs to deserve an iron rod. Nobody has stopped the Opposition from making new friends either.”

Accused of Violating The Model Code of Conduct

Soren hit the headlines in 2014 after he was accused by rival politicians of breaking the Election Commission of India’s MCC rules. The matter came into the limelight after Soren delivered a speech during an Islamic religious occasion. It came at a time when the Jharkhand Assembly elections were to take place. ^[14]The Times of India

Accused of Buying Assets & Properties From Public Money

In 2020, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey filed a complaint seeking initiation of a criminal proceeding by the Lokpal against Shibu and his family. According to the complaint, the Soren family has amassed a lot of money and property by misusing their power and stealing public money. However, the JMM later filed a plea against the complaint in a court seeking suspension of the case. Later, Dubey approached the Delhi High Court, which, in its judgement, decided not to stay the Lokpal proceedings against Soren. ^[15]Deccan Herald

Awards

In 2014, Shibu Soren won the Mahanayak Award.

Car Collection

He owns a Toyota Qualis.

Salary/Income

In 2022, Shibu Soren’s salary as a member of the parliament is around Rs. 2 lacs + other allowances. ^[16]Zee News In the financial year 2018-2019, Soren’s income was estimated to be Rs. 11,89,940. ^[17]MyNeta

Assets & Properties

Movable Assets

• Cash: Rs. 95,230

• Deposits in Banks, Financial Institutions, and Non-Banking Financial Companies: Rs. 1,18,34,686

• NSS and Postal Savings: Rs. 11,25,000

• Motor Vehicles: Rs. 25,67,000

• Jewellery: Rs. 9,38,100

• Other Assets (a pistol): Rs. 5,488

Immovable Assets

• Non-Agricultural Land: Rs. 92,00,000

• Residential Buildings: Rs. 70,00,000

Note: The given estimates of movable and immovable assets are according to the year 2019. It excludes the assets owned by his wife and dependents. ^[18]MyNeta

Net Worth

Shibu Soren’s net worth for the year 2019 was estimated to be Rs. 1,03,12,288. It excludes the net worth of his wife and dependents. ^[19]MyNeta

Favourites

• Food: Sattu

• Beverage: Tea

• Dessert: Kacha Gulla

Facts/Trivia

• He is affectionately called Guru Ji and Dishom Guruji by his followers and family members.

• Shibu said, in an interview, that his mother had to sell her jewellery after the death of his father as the family went into financial troubles because his father was the only earning member of the family. He said,
  

  After the murder of my father, my mother somehow educated us brothers and sisters by selling her jewellery.”

• He is one of the most influential tribal leaders in India. The trial population often refers to him as God.

• In 1975, after the Emergency was declared in India, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi ordered his arrest; however, he absconded. In 1976, he surrendered to the police after the DC of Dhanbad, a good friend of his, persuaded him to do so.

• After getting imprisoned in 1976, Shibu began organising Chhath for the non-tribal women in the prison itself. He started doing so after he saw a woman sing the Chhath song in prison as she was unable to celebrate it with her family due to being imprisoned. A journalist talked about it, in an interview, and said,
  

  Shibu Soren could not understand anything after listening to the song of the woman prisoner in the jail, he asked another activist of Jharkhand movement and Jhagdu Pandit in jail about this. Jhagadu told them that the woman performs Chhath every time, but this time she is in jail for a crime, hence she is not able to perform Chhath, hence she is singing Chhath songs in great pain. Till then as a tribal leader Prashant was deeply saddened to hear the plight of a non-tribal woman. He made arrangements for the woman to observe Chhath fast in the jail itself.”

• Numerous books have been published on him. Some of them are Shibu Soren Jharkhand Andolan Ka Ek Siprahi (2015), Dishom Guru Shibu Soren (2020), and Tribal Hero Shibu Soren (2023).

• Soren is fluent in playing Nagada and Dugdugi, which he plays every morning after waking up. He said that whenever he visits a tribe, he announces his arrival by playing tribal instruments.
  

  A photo of Soren taken while he was playing Nagada

• Shibu follows a very strict routine. According to him, he wakes up at 4 in the morning even if he goes to sleep at 2 in the night.

• Shibu Soren does not smoke or consume alcohol. According to sources, he is a teetotaler and does not like those who consume alcohol. ^[20]The Times of India In an interview, Shibu said that he was once about to beat up his uncle who refused to quit drinking even after his insistence.

• He follows a strict vegetarian diet. ^[21]The Telegraph

• He once recounted an incident from his activism days and revealed that while having dinner in the jungle with his followers, he heard a dog bark in the distance. Trusting his instincts, he went to investigate and found that the dog was barking at the police force, who had come looking to capture him.

• He considers Lalu Prasad Yadav a good friend of his. He has claimed to have supported his candidature to the Bihar Legislative Assembly many times.

• In 2014, during a speech at a tribal election rally, Shibu Soren faced criticism from tribal members for advising against alcohol consumption. Attendees argued that Shibu’s remarks were inaccurate, highlighting that many people in their tribes depend on producing and selling brewed liquor for their livelihoods. ^[22]The Times of India

• He likes to cook his food. He revealed that he prefers to eat chapati with green vegetables.

• In September 2023, Soren was admitted to a hospital in New Delhi after his health deteriorated.
  

  Hemant Soren visiting his father Shibu in New Delhi

• In 2024, Hemant Soren, his son, absconded before the Enforcement Directorate raided his residence.

• He is multi-linguistic and is fluent in many languages including Hindi, Bengali, Oriya, Maithili, and Santhali.

• He has a kitchen garden in his home, where he grows fruits and vegetables like papaya, cucumber, and carrots.

• In an interview, Hemant Soren said that Shibu is very strict. Whenever Shibu is at home, Hemant either stays at a relative’s house or in the guest house. He talked about it and said,
  

  I think he is too strict. Whenever he is at home, I move over to a guest house or a relative’s place. He does not allow anyone to sleep till late or enjoy good food. Even smoking and drinking are strictly prohibited.”

  

  Hemant Soren seeking his father Shibu Soren’s blessings after winning the 2019 Jharkhand Elections

• Shibu Soren loves archery and follows his hobbies of travelling and reading.
  

  Shibu Soren holding and aiming a bow and arrow

• He takes a keen interest in photography. He purchased a Polaroid camera in the early days of his political career.
  

  A photo of Shibu Soren taken with a camera

Rohan Nautiyal

A content writer, editor, and proofreader with over three years of experience in producing well-researched, user-friendly content that simplifies complex information for readers, helping brands to enhance their online presence.

Sombir Singh (1982-2019) was a soldier in the Indian Army who was awarded India’s third-highest gallantry medal during peacetime, the Shaurya Chakra, for his role in combating terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. He passed away after he got shot during an anti-terrorist operation in 2019 in Jammu and Kashmir. In January 2024, it was announced that actor Barun Sobti would portray Sombir Singh’s role in the second season of the series Rakshak- India’s Braves.

Wiki/Biography

Sombir Singh Kadyan was born on Thursday, 4 February 1982 (age 37 years; at the time of death) in Mithi village, Siwani Tehsil, Bhiwani district, Haryana, India. His zodiac sign is Aquarius. Sombir completed his schooling at a government-run school in his village following which he got selected as a recruit in the Indian Army. He later reported at the Jat Regimental Center (JRC) in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, where he underwent military training till 2001.

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 10″

Weight (approx.): 65 kg

Hair Colour: Black

Eye Colour: Dark Brown

Family & Caste

Sombir Singh Kadyan belongs to a Hindu Jat family in the Bhiwani district, Haryana.

Parents & Siblings

His father, Sher Singh Kadyan, is a retired soldier of the Indian Army. His mother’s name is Rajendri Devi.

Wife & Children

His wife, Suman Devi, is a government official. He has two daughters and a son. One of his daughters’ names is Priya Singh.

Suman Devi and the mother of Sombir Singh at an event

Religion

Sombir Singh followed Hinduism.

Career

Sombir Singh Kadyan joined the 8th Battalion of the Jat Regiment as a sepoy after completing his military training in Bareilly in 2001. Owing to his leadership qualities, he went on to become a naib subedar, also known as a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), in the same battalion. After becoming a naib subedar, Kadyan was posted to Jammu and Kashmir, where he became a part of the 34 Rashtriya Rifles Battalion and helped the battalion in curbing terrorism in Kulgam. With his battalion, he undertook numerous counter-terrorism operations in Kashmir.

Operation Rakshak

This operation was started by the Indian Army in the mid-1990s to eliminate militancy in Kashmir. On 24 February 2019, Sombir’s battalion received the news of the presence of three heavily armed militants in Turigam village in Kulgam. Soon after, the battalion sent Sombir along with some other troops to neutralise the militants. Sombir was part of the assault team that was ordered to kill the militants. While conducting a combat and search operation in the village, the militants opened fire on the assault team. Sombir directed the troops that were under his command and retaliated to the militants effectively. According to sources, he then laid an ambush at several locations in the village to prevent the militants from escaping; however, a militant opened fire on the troops as a result of which Sombir’s fellow soldier got grievously wounded. To protect his fellow soldier from getting killed, Sombir left the cover of his safety, opened fire on the militant, and managed to kill him. It was later determined the killed militant was of foreign origin and was of the A++ category. In the process, Sombir was hit by two bullets as a result of which he died. ^[1]Business Standard

Military Accolades

In January 2020, for his gallant actions, Sombir Singh Kadyan was awarded the nation’s third-highest peacetime medal, the Shaurya Chakra, posthumously.

Sombir Singh’s wife receiving the Shaurya Chakra from President Ram Nath Kovind in January 2020

Salary

Sombir Singh earned a salary of Rs. 35,400 + other allowances as a Naib Subedar. ^[2]DNA

Death

Sombir Singh died on 24 February 2019 at the age of 37 years in Jammu and Kashmir after he received two gunshot wounds, one to the neck and the other to the chest, during an anti-insurgency operation. After getting fatally wounded in Kulgam, he was airlifted to the 92 Base Hospital in the Badami Bagh Cantonment, Srinagar, where he passed away. ^[3]The Government of India In an interview, his daughter, Priya, talked about his death and said,

It is a proud moment for our family that my martyr father has been awarded Shaurya Chakra posthumously for showing courage while fighting with militants. Today, I can say proudly that I am a daughter of a shaheed fauji. It is very difficult to spend life without a father, but he went beyond his duty as a father by sacrificing his life for the nation. I want to say that the government should take care of martyrs’ families from time to time.”

Chinar Corps Commander paying homage to Sombir Singh after his death

Facts/Trivia

• After Sombir Singh Kadyan passed away in 2019, the Haryana government gave the bereaved family members an ex gratia check for Rs. 2 lac and announced that Suman Devi, his wife, would be given a government job based on her educational qualifications.

• In January 2024, it was revealed that Barun Sobti would portray the character of Naib Subedar Sombir Singh Kadyan in Rakshak – India’s Braves Chapter 2. While giving an interview, Barun talked about it and said,
  

  I am filled with a profound sense of accomplishment and gratitude. It is a great responsibility to play the role of an individual who sacrificed his life for the nation. It is truly an honour to portray the role of Naib Subedar Sombir Singh and share his brave story through Rakshak – India’s Braves.”

  

  Barun Sobti as Naib Subedar Sombir Singh Kadyan on the poster of the second season of Rakshak – India’s Braves

Rohan Nautiyal

A content writer, editor, and proofreader with over three years of experience in producing well-researched, user-friendly content that simplifies complex information for readers, helping brands to enhance their online presence.

Akash Vijayvargiya is an Indian politician and a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He is the son of the prominent BJP politician Kailash Vijayvargiya. He hit the headlines in 2023 after he decided not to contest the legislative elections in Madhya Pradesh.

Wiki/Biography

Akash Kailash Vijayvargiya was born on Wednesday, 12 September 1984 (age 39 years; as of 2023) in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India. His zodiac sign is Virgo. He did his higher secondary and senior secondary education with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) in 2000 and 2002 respectively. He then enrolled at the Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya in Bhopal, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in 2007. Thereafter, he relocated to the United States of America, where he earned a master’s degree in science in civil and environmental engineering in 2008 at Carnegie Mellon University. ^[1]MyNeta

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 7″

Hair Colour: Black

Eye Colour: Dark Brown

Family & Caste

Akash Vijayvargiya belongs to a Hindu family in Madhya Pradesh from the Vaishya caste. ^[2]The Hindu

Parents & Siblings

His father, Kailash Vijayvargiya, is a politician, who is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In 2015, he was appointed as the National General Secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party.

A photo of Kailash Vijayvargiya with his sons, Kalpesh Vijayvargiya and Akash Vijayvargiya

His mother, Asha Vijayvargiya, is a businesswoman. He has a brother named Kalpesh Vijayvargiya, who is also a BJP politician.

Kailash Vijayvargiya with Asha Vijayvargiya

Wife & Children

His wife’s name is Sonam Vijayvargiya; she is a businesswoman. The couple has two kids, a son named Kashi Vijayvargiya and a daughter named Avishka Vijayvargiya.

A photo of Akash Vijayvargiya with Sonam Vijayvargiya and kids

Other Relatives

His grandfather, Shankar Dayal Vijavargiya, was a politician.

Religion

Akash Vijayvargiya follows Hinduism, and he is a follower of Lord Shiva.

Address

He resides at House number 880/9, Nanda Nagar, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India.

Signature/Autograph

Signature of Akash Vijayvargiya

Career

After completing his formal education, Akash became a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He then began campaigning for the candidates fielded by the party in General as well as Legislative Assembly polls. In 2018, the BJP gave him a ticket to contest the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly polls from the Indore 3 constituency. In the elections, he defeated his nearest rival Ashwin Joshi, an Indian National Congress (INC) candidate who had been winning the seat since 2003, by a margin of 5,751 votes.

A photo of Akash Vijayvargiya taken during an election campaign

He served as an MLA till 2023. In October 2023, his father, Kailash Vijayvargiya, claimed, in an interview, that Akash had written a letter to J. P. Nadda asking him to not consider his candidature for the 2023 Madhya Pradesh Vidhan Sabha elections. He further talked about it and said,

As soon as I was given a ticket, Akash wrote a letter to the party president, saying since I (Kailash) have been picked as a contestant, his (Akash’s) candidature should not be considered.”

A photo of Akash Vijayvargiya taken while he was serving as a Member of the Legislative Assembly

Controversies

Brief Details of IPCs

In 2018, he had 1 charge related to disobedience to an order duly promulgated by a public servant (IPC Section-188). ^[3]MyNeta

Beating A Government Official With A Bat

In June 2019, he hit the headlines after a video of him went viral in which he was seen assaulting a municipal corporation official with a bat. According to sources, Akash had visited a BJP supporter’s house, where the municipal corporation had come with bulldozers to demolish as it was designated as a “dangerous building.” After the incident, a case was filed against Akash at the MG Road police station under IPC sections 353, 294, 506, 147, and 148. He was after that presented in a local court which sent him to a 15-day judicial remand. He, in an interview, talked about it and said,

I had brought this to the notice of IMC authorities and requested them not to take any action, but they did not listen to my request and sent a team to demolish the building. As I came to know about it, I reached the spot and tried to explain the issue to the zonal officer concerned, but he did not listen to me either. This is when I lost my patience.” ^[4]The Times of India

A cop trying to restrain Akash while he was hitting a civic official with a bat

In his defence, many residents of Indore took to the streets, demanding his immediate release from the prison. He was criticised by many politicians for his actions, including the senior members of the BJP. Residents of Indore even erected posters in his support in the city which said “Salute Akash Ji.” ^[5]NDTV

Akash being taken into judicial custody after the court’s order

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a parliamentary party meeting, lashed out at Akash for such behaviour and asked the party to identify all the BJP leaders involved in the assault of the civic official and remove them from their posts. ^[6]Hindustan Times

Giving Threatful Remarks

He once again made headlines in November 2019 after he gave a threatening remark against the government officials in Madhya Pradesh. According to sources, while giving an interview, Akash said that the officials were not looking after the farmers and many had approached him complaining about getting inflated electricity bills despite the irregular supply of electricity in the state. He then threatened the officials and made a remark stating “We do not roam empty-handed” for which he was criticised by the politicians. Sources also claim that he was also sent a show cause notice by the BJP. Akash, during a media interaction, said,

We do not roam around empty-handed so they (officials) should understand what will happen to them.” ^[7]Outlook

Giving Controversial Remarks While Addressing Students

In November 2022, Akash Vijayvargiya, while addressing students belonging to the Phool Maali Samaj, gave a remark about rapists and murderers. In his speech, he said that the courts should not only punish the wrongdoers but should also send their parents to prison for a year or two. He further added that a person committed such crimes because of the fault of their parents as they are unable to give them better morals. He said,

If a person rapes, then in my opinion, not only should he get punishment, but his parents too for at least one or two years. Similarly, parents of murderers too should get a punishment of two-three years along with the convict. It is the parents’ lookout to make their children responsible citizens with good character and culture. If children do something good the credit goes to the parents. If they do something bad, parents are responsible for it too.” ^[8]Deccan Herald

Awards

• Kailash Vijayvargiya was given the Dainik Bhaskar Eminent Award in 2021 for the role that he played in providing necessary products to the people in his constituency during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  

  Akash Vijayvargiya receiving the Dainik Bhaskar Eminent Award in 2021

• He received an award from Ashwini Vaishnav, the Union Minister, for working on developing his constituency.

Car Collection

According to the electoral affidavit filed by Akash Vijaywargiya in 2018, he does not own any vehicle. ^[9]The Times of India

Income

Akash Vijaywargiya’s income in the financial year 2017-2018 was estimated to be Rs. 73,30,538.

Assets & Properties

Movable Assets

• Cash: Rs. 21,061

• Deposits in Banks, Financial Institutions, and Non-Banking Financial Companies: Rs. 24,70,257

• Bonds, Debentures, and Shares in companies: Rs. 1,14,000

• LIC or other insurance Policies: Rs. 2,18,757

• Personal loans & advance given: Rs. 1,99,11,845

• Jewellery: Rs. 10,90,733

• Other Assets: Rs. 11,97,076

Immovable Assets

• Non-Agricultural Land: Rs. 30,00,000

Note: The given estimates of movable and immovable assets are according to the year 2018. It excludes the assets owned by his wife. ^[10]MyNeta

Net Worth

Akash Vijayvargiya’s net worth in 2018 was estimated to be Rs. 2,57,33,780. It excludes the net worth of his wife. ^[11]MyNeta

Facts/Trivia

• Following the controversy in which he beat up a civic official in 2019, several media channels named him Batsman and Hitman.

• Cricket is his favourite sport. He is also known for promoting local sports such as gilli danda.
  

  Akash Vijayvargiya’s photo taken while he was playing Gilli Danda

• In 2024, he was appointed as the president of the Indore Division Cricket Association (IDCA).

Rohan Nautiyal

A content writer, editor, and proofreader with over three years of experience in producing well-researched, user-friendly content that simplifies complex information for readers, helping brands to enhance their online presence.

Sajidha Mohamed is the First Lady of Maldives and the wife of the Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, who is known for his pro-China and anti-India stance. She has also served as a civil servant.

Wiki/Biography

Sajidha Mohamed was born in 1978 (age 46 years; as of 2024) in Malé, Maldives. After completing her schooling, Sajidha relocated to Bengaluru, India, where she completed her graduation with a bachelor’s degree in science in 2003. Thereafter, she went to London, the United Kingdom, where she completed her post-graduation with a master’s degree in science in 2005 at the University of Leeds.

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 7″

Hair Colour: Black

Eye Colour: Dark Brown

Sajidha with President Mohamed Muizzu

Family

Sajidha Mohamed belongs to a Maldivian Muslim family.

Parents & Siblings

Her father, Shaikh Mohamed Ibrahim, was a religious scholar. Her mother’s name is Habeeba Ali. She has 18 half-siblings from her father’s side and 5 half-siblings from her mother’s side.

A photo of Sajidha Mohamed with Mohamed Muizzu and her family members

Husband & Children

Her husband, Mohamed Muizzu, is the President of Maldives who often hits the headlines in India for his favouritism towards China and anti-India posture. She got married to him on 18 May 2003.

A photo of Sajidha Mohamed with Mohamed Muizzu

The couple has three children, a daughter named Yasmin Muizzu, and two sons named Umair Muizzu and Zaid Muizzu.

A photo of Muizzu and Sajidha’s children

Other Relatives

Her father-in-law, Shaikh Hussain Abdul Rahman, served as a judge in a court in Malé.

A photo of Muizzu’s father

Religion

Sajidha Mohamed follows Islam.

Signature/Autograph

Signature of Sajidha Mohamed

First Lady of The Maldives

Sajidha became the first lady following the appointment of Muizzu as the President of the Maldives on 17 November 2023. Later, she, along with her husband, visited Turkey, where she met her counterpart Emine Erdoğan. In January 2023, she visited the People’s Republic of China (PRC) along with her husband.

Sajidha Mohamed posing for a photo with Mohamed Muizzu, Chinese Premiere Xi Jinping, and his wife during her visit to China

Facts/Trivia

• Her friends and family members also refer to her as Saaji.

• Sajidha Mohamed follows her hobby of reading.

• In an interview, she claimed that when she was in India pursuing her graduation, she used to talk to Muizzu, who was in the Maldives, through emails.

• Sajidha Mohamed actively campaigned for her husband’s Presidential elections in 2023.
  

  A photo of Mohamed Muizzu with Sajidha taken during an election rally in 2023

Rohan Nautiyal

A content writer, editor, and proofreader with over three years of experience in producing well-researched, user-friendly content that simplifies complex information for readers, helping brands to enhance their online presence.

Kavvampally Satyanarayana is an Indian medical professional, politician, member of the Telangana Legislative Assembly, and member of the Indian National Congress (INC). He hit the headlines in January 2024 after a video of him in which he was seen misbehaving with a woman during a New Year event went viral on the internet.

Wiki/Biography

Kavvampally Satyanarayana was born on Thursday, 10 June 1965 (age 58 years; as of 2023) in Andhra Pradesh, India. His zodiac sign is Gemini. After completing his schooling in Andhra Pradesh in a government-run school, he enrolled at the Kakatiya Medical College, University of Health Sciences, where he earned a degree in Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). Thereafter, he earned a degree in Master of Surgery (MS) in General Surgery from the same college in 1998. ^[1]MyNeta

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 5″

Hair Colour: Black

Eye Colour: Dark Brown

Family & Caste

Kavvampally Satyanarayana belongs to a Scheduled Castes (SC) Hindu family in Telangana.

Parents & Siblings

His father’s name is Kavvampally Yellaiah (deceased).

Wife & Children

His wife, Kavvampally Anuradha, is a doctor and a member of the Indian National Congress. The couple has two kids, a son named Kavvampally Ankith Narayana and a daughter named Kavvampally Shreya Narayana.

Kavvampally Satyanarayana posing for a photo with Anuradha

Religion

Kavvampally Satyanarayana follows Hinduism.

Address

He resides at House number 9-25/1, Pachunoor Village, Manakondur Mandal, Karimnagar District, Telangana, India.

Signature/Autograph

Signature of Kavvamaplly Satyanarayana

Career

Doctor

After completing his formal education, Kavvampally Satyanarayana began practising medicine in Andhra Pradesh and later in Telangana (after its formation in 2014). He has served as a general surgeon in the Guru Nanak Homeopathic Medical College and Hospital in Hyderabad. He, along with his wife Anuradha, is the founder of Ankith Multi Speciality Hospital in Hyderabad. He is also a laparoscopy and endoscopy specialist. Apart from serving as a doctor, he has also served as an assistant professor of surgery in Andhra Pradesh.

Logo of Ankith Multi Speciality Hospital

Politics

In 2009, he contested the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly elections from the Manakondur constituency, reserved for the Scheduled Caste (SC) candidates, on the Praja Rajyam Party’s ticket. He, however, lost the elections to Arepalli Mohan, an Indian National Congress (INC) candidate. He later left PRAP and became a member of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and contested the 2014 Telangana state elections from the Manakondur constituency. In the elections, he was defeated by a Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) candidate named Rasamayi Balakishan.

Kavvampally posing for a photo while campaigning for the Telangana Assembly polls

Thereafter, he left the TDP and joined the INC. He was later appointed as the District Congress Committee (DCC) of Karimnagar. On INC’s ticket, Kavvampally contested the 2023 Telangana Legislative Assembly elections and emerged victorious over his nearest rival Erupula Balakishan, a BRS candidate, by a margin of 32,365 votes.

A photo of Kavvampally taken while he was filing his nomination for the 2023 Telangana Assembly elections

Controversies

Brief Details of IPCs

• 1 charge related to Illegal payments in connection with an election (IPC Section-171H)

• 1 charge related to Punishment for criminal intimidation (IPC Section-506)

• 4 charges related to Punishment for wrongful restraint (IPC Section-341)

• 3 charges related to Punishment for Rioting (IPC Section-147)

• 3 charges related to Disobedience to order duly promulgated by a public servant (IPC Section-188)

• 3 charges related to Assault or criminal force to deter a public servant from discharge of his duty (IPC Section-353)

• 2 charges related to Every member of unlawful assembly guilty of an offence committed in prosecution of a common object (IPC Section-149)

• 2 charges related to Acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention (IPC Section-34)

• 2 charges related to Punishment for Being a member of an unlawful assembly (IPC Section-143)

• 1 charge related to Negligent act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life (IPC Section-269)

• 1 charge related to Malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life (IPC Section-270)

• 1 charge related to Mischief causing damage to the amount of fifty rupees (IPC Section-427)

• 1 charge related to Wantonly giving provocation with intent to cause riot-if rioting be committed-if not committed (IPC Section-153) ^[2]MyNeta

Criticised For Indulging In Inappropriate Behaviour

Kavvampally Satyanarayana faced criticism from internet users and other political parties after a video of him went viral on the internet. The video captured an incident during the New Year celebration in January 2024, where he was seen trying to forcefully get close to a woman worker of the Indian National Congress (INC) while attempting to put cake on her face. In the footage, the woman tried to maintain distance from Kavvampally. Another clip from the same event showed him dancing with another female INC worker while holding her hands. ^[3]AP7AM

Bike Collection

He owns a Royal Enfield Bullet (2017 model).

Salary/Income

Kavvampally Satyanarayana’s salary in 2023 as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Telangana is estimated to be Rs. 2,50,000 + other allowances. ^[4]Telangana Legislative Assembly His income, for the financial year 2022-2023, was Rs. 32,13,647. ^[5]MyNeta

Assets & Properties

Movable Assets

• Cash: Rs. 2,00,000

• Bank Deposits: Rs. 5,00,000

• Motor Vehicles: Rs. 1,20,000

• Jewellery: Rs. 25,00,000

Immovable Assets

• Agricultural Land: Rs. 5,50,00,000

• Residential Buildings: Rs. 2,55,00,000

Note: The given estimates of movable and immovable assets are according to the year 2023. It excludes the assets owned by his wife. ^[6]MyNeta

Net Worth

Kavvampally Satyanarayana’s net worth for the financial year 2023 was estimated to be Rs. 8,36,92,881. It excludes the net worth of his wife. ^[7]MyNeta

Facts/Trivia

• His name is also spelt as Satyanarayana K.

• In 2021, as a District Congress President, he led the party to protest outside the Telangana Legislative Assembly and block the MLAs from entering the premises of the legislative assembly. In an interview, he talked about it and said,
  

  Farmers are facing a lot of problems, but the government is not in the mood to solve them. This is the absolute failure of the three Ministers K T Rama Rao, Gangula Kamalakar and Eatala Rajender from in the parliament constituency of Karimnagar.”

• In his leisure time, Satyanarayana likes to read books and listen to music.

• In 2022, Kavvampally Satyanarayana established a library in a government school and made it accessible for the poor and the needy to borrow books to read.

Rohan Nautiyal

A content writer, editor, and proofreader with over three years of experience in producing well-researched, user-friendly content that simplifies complex information for readers, helping brands to enhance their online presence.