Maithili Thakur is a renowned Indian playback singer trained in Indian classical and folk music who has become one of Bihar’s most celebrated cultural ambassadors. Born on July 25, 2000, in Benipatti village, Madhubani district, Bihar, she belongs to a Maithil family deeply rooted in musical traditions.
The 25-year-old singer is named after both goddess Sita and her native Maithili language. She has mastered multiple musical forms and languages, singing in Hindi, Bengali, Maithili, Urdu, Marathi, Bhojpuri, Punjabi, Tamil, and English.
Early Life and Musical Foundation
Maithili’s musical journey began exceptionally early – she started learning from her grandfather at age 4. Her father, Ramesh Thakur, is a music teacher, and her mother, Bharti Thakur, is a homemaker. Recognizing her potential around age 6, her father relocated the family from Bihar to Dwarka, New Delhi for better opportunities in the music industry.
She was home-schooled until 5th grade due to the distance from school, then attended Bal Bhavan International School in Delhi. Later, she pursued graduation from Atmaram Sanatan Dharma College in Delhi. Throughout her education, she was trained by her father and grandfather in Hindustani classical music, harmonium, and tabla.
Maithili has two younger brothers – Rishav and Ayachi Thakur – who often accompany her performances, with Rishav playing tabla and Ayachi providing vocal support. The family affectionately calls her “Tannu,” Ayachi “Habbu,” and Rishav “Sunny”.
Connection with Indian Idol and Reality Shows
Maithili’s relationship with Indian Idol spans several seasons and formats, though it began with multiple rejections that ultimately shaped her resilience:
Early Rejections and Perseverance
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2011: Rejected at auditions for Sa Re Ga Ma Pa L’il Champs on Zee TV
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Over her early career, she was rejected six times from various reality shows, even after reaching top 20 positions
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These rejections became a defining part of her journey, teaching her perseverance
Indian Idol Junior Participation
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Participated in Indian Idol Junior Season 9 as a contestant
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Her classical singing impressed judge Shalmali Kholgade during the show
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Later appeared on Indian Idol 14 where she performed “Aao Na,” impressing judge Shreya Ghoshal
Rising Star Success
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2017: Became a contestant on Colors TV’s Rising Star – India’s first live singing reality show
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Achieved first finalist status by singing “Om Namah Shivaya,” which gained her direct entry to finals
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Finished as runner-up by just two votes
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This show significantly boosted her internet popularity and recognition
Current Activities and Achievements
National Recognition and Awards
Cultural Ambassador of the Year (2024): Maithili received the prestigious National Creators Award from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 8, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. During the ceremony, she performed a devotional song for Lord Shiva and famously requested a selfie with PM Modi, which went viral on social media.
Official Appointments and Brand Ambassadorships
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Election Commission State Icon: Appointed by the Election Commission of India as Bihar’s state icon for voter awareness campaigns
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Brand Ambassador for Madhubani District (2019 Lok Sabha elections)
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Brand Ambassador for Bihar Khadi and Village Industries Commission
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National Child Rights Commission Ambassador
Recent Performances and Tours (2025)
Maithili has maintained an active performance schedule throughout 2025:
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Vaishali Mahotsav 2025 (April 11): Live bhajan concert in Vaishali, Bihar
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Sitamarhi Mahotsav 2025 (May 6): Folk music performance
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Kkakolat Mahotsav 2025 (February 18): Cultural event in Nawada
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London Performance: Recent studio session at Riverside Studio, London
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Khelo India Bihar: Performed alongside Pankaj Tripathi at the opening ceremony
Digital Presence and Influence
Maithili has built a massive digital following:
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YouTube: Over 5.02 million subscribers with 785+ million views
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Instagram: 6.1 million followers
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Facebook: 14 million followers
Her estimated net worth is approximately ₹10 crores, earned through playback singing, live events, and brand promotions.
Awards and Honors
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Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar from Sangeet Natak Akademi for folk music contribution
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Atal Mithila Samman by the Government of India
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Five-time winner of Delhi State Classical Music Competition
Musical Repertoire
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Favorite Raga: Puriya Dhanashri
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Specializations: Maithili folk music, Hindustani classical, bhajans, and devotional songs
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Album Release: “Ya Rabba” (2016) with Universal Music
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Playback Singing: Worked on various film projects and music videos
International Recognition
Maithili has performed at various national and international events and literature festivals, establishing her reputation beyond India’s borders.
Current Status and Future Prospects
As of October 2025, Maithili Thakur stands at a pivotal juncture in her career. While she continues her musical journey with regular performances across Bihar and internationally.
Her journey from facing multiple reality show rejections to becoming a national cultural icon exemplifies resilience and dedication to preserving India’s rich musical traditions while adapting to contemporary platforms and audiences.
