Mumbai’s political landscape was shaken to its core on January 28 when news broke of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s tragic demise in a Baramati plane crash. The shocking incident has cast a pall of grief across the nation, with tributes pouring in from all quarters.
Actor and former BJP leader Gajendra Chauhan, best known for his iconic role in Mahabharat, was left devastated by the loss. Paying heartfelt condolences, Chauhan referred to Pawar affectionately as ‘Ajit Dada’ and described his passing as an irreplaceable blow to Maharashtra and India at large. ‘When I heard the news this morning, I first thought it was fake. But seeing it confirmed on major news channels hit me like a thunderbolt,’ Chauhan shared emotionally.
Recalling Pawar’s journey, Chauhan highlighted how the late leader rose through sheer grit and determination. From transforming Baramati into a model constituency to steering statewide development as Deputy CM, Pawar’s contributions were monumental. ‘He was a bold leader who said no to the impossible and delivered on promises. His role in Maharashtra’s reforms was unmatched,’ Chauhan noted.
Though their interactions were brief—once at Mumbai airport and again at Nagpur lounge—Chauhan admired Pawar’s administrative prowess and public service ethos. ‘He lived for the people, and his untimely departure leaves a void that Maharashtra will feel deeply,’ he said.
As the state mourns, Chauhan prayed for strength to Pawar’s family and close ones. Pawar’s death at a relatively young age, when the state pinned high hopes on him, amplifies the tragedy. His vision for progress and fearless leadership will be sorely missed in Maharashtra’s political arena.