Introduction: Who is Ghanshyam Darode?
Ghanshyam Darode, popularly known as “Chhota Pudhari”, is an Indian politician-activist, actor, and public figure from Maharashtra. He gained widespread recognition through his dynamic speeches, engagement in farmers’ rights, and his stint on Bigg Boss Marathi 5, where his principled and unaffected approach earned him admiration and criticism alike.
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Ghanshyam Darode
|
| Nickname | Chhota Pudhari |
| Profession | Political Activist, Actor, Reality TV Personality |
| Known For | Bigg Boss Marathi Season 5, Grassroots Speeches |
| Date of Birth | Circa 2002 |
| Age (as of 2025) | Around 22–23 years |
| Hometown | Shrigonde, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra |
| Education | Graduate; Studied at Maharaja Jivajirao Shinde Mahavidyalaya |
| Family Background | Middle-class farming family |
| Father | Dattatreya Darode (Farmer) |
| Siblings | One elder sister |
| Net Worth | Estimated modest (no official disclosure) |
| Social Media | Active on Instagram |
Early Life of Ghanshyam Darode
Born around 2002 into a farming family in rural Maharashtra, Ghanshyam is the younger of two siblings—he’s the only son, with an elder sister. He studied initially at an ashram school in Ghargaon (now Srigonde) before returning home. His early exposure to grassroots life shaped his connection to agriculture and rural issues.
Education of Ghanshyam Darode
- Ghanshyam completed his primary schooling at an ashram school in Ghargaon (now Shrigonde), Maharashtra, followed by studies at Maharaja Jivajirao Shinde Mahavidyalaya in Shrigonde
- According to reports, he has completed his graduate degree, though the exact discipline hasn’t been publicly disclosed
Family of Ghanshyam Darode
- Father: Dattatreya Darode, a farmer from Shrigonde.
- Mother: Details not publicly available — he often acknowledges her emotional support.
- Siblings: One elder sister.
- Background: He hails from a middle-class farming family in rural Maharashtra, which shaped his early focus on agricultural and rural issues
Entry into Public Life & Politics
Ghanshyam’s journey into politics began unexpectedly: while campaigning for Rahul Jagtap (NCP) against former minister Babanrao Pachpute, his fiery speeches captured attention. Public reaction turned strongly in Jagtap’s favor, highlighting Ghanshyam’s influence with his bold, charismatic style.
Career Highlights
Political Activism
He rose to prominence by giving “fearless speeches about Maharashtra’s political affairs,” advocating for farmers’ welfare and suicide prevention, even presenting solutions to state authorities.
Acting
Ghanshyam also explores acting, credited on IMDb for roles and features in Marathi cultural productions.
Bigg Boss Marathi
In 2024, he joined Bigg Boss Marathi Season 5 as a contestant and was nicknamed “Chhota Pudhari.” His unwavering integrity and emotional nature engaged audiences, though he exited mid-season. Post-elimination, he reflected on playing with honesty amid a complex house environment.
Personal Challenges
In 2023, Ghanshyam and his family endured a serious car accident on the Pune–Solapur highway.
Fortunately, to escape severe injury, the incident was widely covered and added a dramatic chapter to his public journey.
Public Persona and Voice
Ghanshyam stands out for his candid and grounded demeanor, both on political platforms and reality TV. His strong oratory on rural issues, coupled with an unvarnished presence in the public eye, has made him a central figure in Maharashtra’s grassroots narrative.
Physical Appearance Table
| Physical Trait | Details |
| Height | Approx. 3′ 7″ (112 cm) |
| Weight | Not publicly disclosed |
| Eye Color | Black |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Build | Slim / Petite |
| Distinguishing Feature | Short stature, youthful presence |
Interesting Facts About Ghanshyam Darode
- Known as “Chhota Pudhari” for being the “small leader” from a farming background.
- Engaged in grassroots politics before his TV fame.
- Survived a major car accident in 2023.
- Active in highlighting farmer suicide issues.
- Featured in Marathi film/music like “Me Yetoy… Chhota Pudhari.”
- His Bigg Boss journey sparked viral moments and emotional discussions.
FAQs About Ghanshyam Darode
- Who is Ghanshyam Darode?
Ghanshyam Darode, also known as Chhota Pudhari, is a young Marathi political activist, actor, and former contestant on Bigg Boss Marathi Season 5. - Why is Ghanshyam Darode called “Chhota Pudhari”?
The nickname means “Little Leader” in Marathi, reflecting his youthful rise from a farming background into public and political life. - What is Ghanshyam Darode’s age?
As of 2025, he is approximately 22–23 years old, though his exact birthdate is not publicly confirmed. - Is Ghanshyam Darode an actor?
Yes, in addition to his political activism, he has appeared in Marathi media and songs like Me Yetoy… Chhota Pudhari. - Was Ghanshyam Darode in Bigg Boss Marathi?
Yes, he participated in Bigg Boss Marathi Season 5, where his honest and emotional personality gained a lot of public attention. - What are Ghanshyam Darode’s main causes?
He advocates for the rights of farmers, rural development, and political accountability in Maharashtra. - Was he involved in any accidents?
Yes, in 2023, he and his family were involved in a serious car accident on the Pune–Solapur highway but escaped without major injuries.
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