Tej Pratap Yadav Reunites with Lalu, Rabri, and Tejashwi for Makar Sankranti

In a dramatic sequence of events over the Makar Sankranti holidays (January 13–14, 2026), the long-standing rift within Bihar’s most prominent political family appears to have reached a turning point.

Tej Pratap Yadav, the elder son of RJD patriarch Lalu Prasad Yadav, successfully orchestrated a high-profile family reunion, bridging a year-long divide that began with his expulsion from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) in 2025.

The Sequence of Reconciliation

1. The Surprise Appearance at the BJP Feast (Jan 13)

The first signs of a shift appeared on Tuesday evening when Tej Pratap raised eyebrows by attending a Makar Sankranti feast hosted by his political rival, Bihar Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha (BJP).

• The Interaction: Despite being the chief of his own outfit, Janshakti Janata Dal (JJD), Tej Pratap received a warm welcome from Sinha and other NDA leaders, including CM Nitish Kumar.
• The Mission: It was later revealed that Tej Pratap attended the event specifically to extend personal invitations for his own “Historic Dahi-Chuda Feast.”

2. The Emotional Return to 10 Circular Road (Jan 13 Night)

Following the BJP event, Tej Pratap made a rare visit to his mother Rabri Devi’s residence at 10 Circular Road.

• The Blessing: He sought the blessings of his parents, Lalu and Rabri, by touching their feet—a gesture he shared on X (formerly Twitter).
• The Uncle Moment: In a moment that went viral, Tej Pratap was seen playing with his niece, Katyayani (Tejashwi Yadav’s daughter). He described it as a “wonderful moment” that transcended political friction.
• The Invitation: He formally handed over a written invitation to his younger brother and Leader of the Opposition, Tejashwi Yadav, for the Wednesday feast.

3. The ‘Superhit’ Feast (Jan 14)

On Wednesday afternoon, the reconciliation was cemented when Lalu Prasad Yadav personally attended Tej Pratap’s feast.

• Lalu’s Verdict: Speaking to the media at the event, Lalu Prasad signaled the end of the family feud, stating, “Tej Pratap has my blessings; he will now stay with the family.”
• Tej Pratap’s Joy: A beaming Tej Pratap told reporters, “If Teju Bhaiya’s feast won’t be a super duper hit, then whose will be? Our parents are God to us.”

Political Context: From Expulsion to “New Equations”

The “New Equation” Buzz

While the reunion was primarily familial, the presence of RLJP chief Pashupati Kumar Paras and several NDA ministers at Tej Pratap’s feast has fueled intense speculation. Paras remarked that “new equations are formed on Makar Sankranti,” suggesting that Tej Pratap’s JJD could eventually find a formal place within a larger coalition, potentially serving as a bridge between his personal family ties and his current political independence.