New Delhi: Rajesh Pilot, the daring aviator-turned-politician, began his remarkable journey holding Indira Gandhi’s hand. Born into a humble farmer’s family in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, on February 10, 1945, Rajeshwar Prasad embodied the grit of rural India. While pursuing his degree at Meerut University, he juggled studies with delivering milk to ministers’ bungalows, rushing back for classes. His dream of serving in the armed forces came true on October 29, 1966, when he received his commission in the Indian Air Force.
Soaring through the skies honed Pilot’s fearless spirit. But politics called louder. Quitting the IAF, he plunged into the electoral arena under Indira Gandhi’s mentorship. In 1980, he won his first Lok Sabha seat from Bharatpur on a Congress ticket. The name ‘Rajesh Pilot’ stuck after a supporter urged him to leverage his air force fame during nomination filing – a stroke of genius that made him instantly recognizable.
Pilot became synonymous with the masses, especially farmers, earning the moniker ‘Messiah of Farmers.’ He spent more time in public rallies than in his ministry office. During Congress campaigns, he toured nearly every state, earning the nickname ‘Airborne Leader’ or even ‘Flying Minister’ from critics. In one interview, he quipped, ‘Flying is my passion, and serving Congress is my duty – it’s both my strength and weakness.’
His political ascent was meteoric. Part of PV Narasimha Rao’s crisis management team, Pilot navigated internal party turmoil, farmer agitations, and Jammu-Kashmir issues with hands-on vigor. He clashed with seniors, including cabinet ministers, prioritizing public causes over protocol. Newspapers buzzed with headlines like ‘Congressmen Protest Pilot’s Style’ and ‘Pilot Emerges as Third Pole in Party.’ Despite detractors labeling him opportunistic, his commitment was undeniable.
Tragedy struck on June 11, 2000. Returning from an election rally in Dausa, his jeep collided with a trolley on Jaipur highway. Rushed to Sawai Man Singh Hospital, the 55-year-old succumbed to injuries. Rajesh Pilot’s legacy endures as a bridge between skies and soil, a leader who never forgot his roots.