Zee Media is set to host ZEE Bhojpuri Samman 2026 in Patna on May 8, bringing together some of the biggest names from Bhojpuri cinema, music, literature, politics, and public life for what is expected to be one of the region’s largest cultural celebrations.

In a Zee Media press release, the network said the event is being organised by its regional channels Zee Bihar Jharkhand and Zee Uttar Pradesh Uttarakhand as a tribute to the achievements and growing cultural influence of the Bhojpuri community. The awards ceremony aims to honour personalities who have made notable contributions across entertainment, arts, literature, entrepreneurship, social impact, and public service.

The gala evening, to be held in Patna, is expected to witness the presence of senior political leaders, policymakers, business leaders, and cultural figures from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. The organisers have also indicated the likely presence of Bihar Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain at the event.

Adding star power to the celebration, several leading Bhojpuri film and music personalities are expected to attend, including Ravi Kishan, Manoj Tiwari, Dinesh Lal Yadav ‘Nirahua’, Yash Mishra, Akshara Singh, Amrapali Dubey, Smriti Sinha, Monalisa, Neelam Giri, Ankush Raja, Shilpi Raghwani, Mahi Shrivastava, Sanjana Pandey, and Tanushree Chatterjee.

Speaking about the initiative, Raktim Das, CEO of Zee Media Corporation Ltd., said Bhojpuri culture continues to be one of the country’s most vibrant and influential regional identities. He noted that the platform is not only about recognising excellence but also about celebrating a cultural movement that continues to evolve and expand across generations and industries.

The event will also feature several distinguished personalities from literature, folk arts, and grassroots initiatives. Among those expected to attend are Anshuman Sinha, son of legendary late folk singer Sharda Sinha, noted Bhojpuri poet Manoj Bhawuk, Padma Shri awardee Rajkumari Devi, popularly known as ‘Kisan Chachi’, and renowned Madhubani artist Dulari Devi.

Further adding depth to the gathering, family members of legendary mathematician Vashishtha Narayan Singh, including Ayodhya Prasad Singh and Rakesh Singh, are also expected to be present.

The evening will additionally see participation from educator Guru Rehman, Sushil Thakur — great grandson of Bhojpuri folk icon Bhikhari Thakur — along with Bhojpuri singer Indu Sonali, actor Kunal Singh, and singer Nisha Upadhyay.

With a mix of entertainment, cultural recognition, and regional pride, ZEE Bhojpuri Samman 2026 is expected to emerge as a significant platform celebrating the growing national influence of Bhojpuri culture and its contribution across multiple fields.