Not Just Modi Has Devotees: Lalu Prasad Yadav’s ‘Hanuman’ Has Remained Loyal for 36 Years

Patna: Political devotion in India is often discussed in the context of ideology, power, or benefit, but in Bihar, one name stands out as a symbol of unwavering personal loyalty—Vinod Shrivastava, a man who has remained steadfastly devoted to RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav for over three decades.

Those who have witnessed the height of Lalu Yadav’s political power are well aware of Vinod Shrivastava’s stature. Rarely was Lalu seen without him by his side. Even today, despite changing political fortunes and declining health, the bond between the leader and his loyalist remains intact.

A resident of Hajipur, Vinod Shrivastava began his journey as a small tent house operator. Over time, his business expanded into malls and multiple ventures. Now 65, Shrivastava claims he has been with Lalu Yadav for the past 36 years, serving him with complete dedication. In all these years, he has never “changed his god,” a phrase often used in political circles to describe shifting loyalties.

Whether it was 1 Anne Marg, 10 Circular Road, jail premises, hospitals, or political gatherings, Shrivastava was always seen in quiet service, maintaining the same reverence and commitment.

A Call That Could Move Delhi and Patna

At the peak of Lalu Yadav’s power, Vinod Shrivastava enjoyed extraordinary access. His reach extended all the way to the kitchens of Lalu Yadav and Rabri Devi. A single phone call from him could set administrative machinery in motion from Delhi to Patna. Recognising his efficiency, Lalu Yadav appointed him as his personal secretary.

From helicopters to convoys of cars, Shrivastava was a constant presence alongside the RJD chief. Over time, his proximity to power also brought political ambitions.

Loyalist Given Repeated Political Chances

Lalu Yadav never disappointed his trusted aide. Shrivastava was given not one, but three major electoral opportunities. In 2010, he was fielded from the Bankipur Assembly constituency, but lost. In 2014, Lalu sent him to the national stage as the RJD candidate from East Champaran (Motihari) in the Lok Sabha elections—again unsuccessful. In 2015, he was given another chance from the Motihari Assembly seat, but fate did not favour him.

Despite repeated electoral defeats, Shrivastava’s faith never wavered, nor did Lalu Yadav’s trust in him diminish.

Still Present at Every Important Moment

Even today, Vinod Shrivastava’s presence is felt at every critical moment in the Yadav family. When Lalu Yadav underwent eye surgery in Delhi recently, Shrivastava remained at the hospital like a shadow. When Misa Bharti brought her father back to Patna, Shrivastava was the only person at the airport with a bouquet. He escorted the leader from wheelchair to car.

When Rabri Devi celebrated her birthday at the 10 Circular Road residence with no one else around, Shrivastava arrived with a cake to make the occasion special.

Currently, Vinod Shrivastava serves as RJD State Vice-President and is also the Bihar President of the All India Kayastha Mahasabha.

A Bond Tested but Unbroken

The depth of their relationship was most visible in February 2022, when Lalu Yadav was convicted in the Doranda Treasury case of the fodder scam. Inside the Ranchi court premises, Vinod Shrivastava broke down in tears. He had seen Lalu Yadav at the peak of power—and witnessing his vulnerability was unbearable for him.

While Shrivastava’s influence may have declined since 2015 due to Lalu Yadav’s health issues and the growing political role of his children, the mutual trust between the ‘devotee’ and his ‘god’ remains unbroken.

In a political landscape marked by opportunism, Vinod Shrivastava stands out as a rare example of absolute loyalty—unchanged for 36 years.

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