Darbhanga, Oct. 28 -- In the floodplains of north Bihar, where mango orchards shade winding village lanes and ancient ponds mirror the skies, four simple symbols have quietly turned into political capital: Paag (the ceremonial Mithila turban), Maachh (fish), Makhana (fox nuts), and Paan (betel). In the upcoming assembly elections, these emblems of Mithilanchal life are at the centre of campaign speeches, street rallies and social media in contests across 14 constituencies of Darbhanga and Madhubani. Once mere cultural motifs, these symbols now shape political strategies. Candidates who mishandle them risk appearing like outsiders. Those who embrace them credibly can tap into emotional loyalties that cut across caste lines. Paag, traditional...