Babul Supriyo

Born in 1970, Supriyo gained nationwide recognition as a playback singer in the late 1990s. His charming personality and melodious voice garnered popularity, particularly among the Bengali diaspora. This established him as a cultural icon, paving the way for his foray into politics.

In 2014, Supriyo joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and contested the Asansol Lok Sabha seat in West Bengal. Riding the wave of Modi's national popularity, he secured a surprise victory. He retained his seat once again in 2019.

His term witnessed Supriyo actively participating in national debates, often sparking controversy with his statements. He held various ministerial positions, including Minister of State for Urban Development and Information & Broadcasting. However, his performance in these roles received mixed reviews, with some questioning his effectiveness.

In 2021, amidst growing disgruntlement within the BJP and disillusionment with the party's leadership, Supriyo switched allegiance to the Trinamool Congress (TMC) led by Mamata Banerjee. This unexpected move surprised both political circles and the public, raising questions about his political convictions.

Despite initial concerns about his loyalty, Supriyo has actively campaigned for the TMC in recent elections. However, his shift has not been without criticism. Some view him as an opportunist, while others question his long-term commitment to the TMC.

Beyond political affiliations, Supriyo's contributions to Bengali music remain significant. He continues to actively perform and holds a special place in the hearts of many music fans.