PATNA, Jan. 5 -- All three political parties of Bihar -- the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Congress - are set for organisational shake-up and are holding up on much-awaited organisational revamp until Makar Sankranti on January 14, a festival considered auspicious as per the Hindu traditions, which marks the sun's northward journey, or "uttarayan journey". The period after Makar Sankranti, which symbolises the prevalence of renewed energy and positivity, has long influenced Indian politics. The parties often take major decisions aligning with astrological calendars to harness perceived good fortune. The last assembly elections, held in November last year, saw the Nitish Kumar-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) retaining power amid a fragmented opposition. While the ruling alliance registered a thumping majority, the election processes also exposed cracks in party machinery across the board. Senior leaders of all the three major political outfits acknowledge the need for fresh faces at key positions and streamlined committees-from district to block levels-to reorganise the organisation and maximize grassroots strength ahead of future polls, including the 2029 general elections. "Astrological calculations play a big role in Indian politics," explained Rama Shankar Arya, a retired professor. "Makar Sankranti isn't just a harvest festival; it's seen as a transition from darkness to light, making it ideal for new beginnings like organizational overhauls or even government swearings-in." P3...