Nation Mourns as Ajit Pawar's Final Aviation Tale Emerges After Tragic Crash
As India grieves the sudden demise of Maharashtra deputy chief minister and Nationalist Congress Party president Ajit Pawar in a devastating aircraft accident, a poignant video capturing one of his last aviation-related recollections has circulated widely across digital platforms. The 66-year-old political stalwart perished on Wednesday morning when a Learjet transporting him and four companions crashed in proximity to Baramati airport within Maharashtra's Pune district. Pawar was en route from Mumbai to Pune district to deliver several campaign speeches preceding the crucial February 5 zilla parishad elections. This catastrophic event has provoked profound sorrow throughout the political arena, with numerous dignitaries commemorating his extensive public service and unique character.
Resurfaced Footage Reveals Harrowing Helicopter Experience
In the viral video clip, Pawar vividly describes an alarming helicopter voyage he shared in July 2024 with then deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and industries minister Uday Samant. This episode transpired as the trio flew from Nagpur to Gadchiroli to participate in a foundation stone-laying ceremony for a steel manufacturing facility amidst adverse meteorological conditions.
Addressing attendees after their safe arrival, Pawar narrated how the helicopter penetrated dense cloud formations, eliminating all external visibility. "When we commenced our journey from Nagpur via helicopter, conditions appeared normal initially," he recounted. "However, later as the aircraft entered the clouds, I glanced around—clouds enveloped us completely. Meanwhile, our colleague Devendra Fadnavis remained seated calmly, engaging in casual conversation."
Anxiety and Reassurance During Turbulent Flight
Pawar further recalled expressing his apprehension to Fadnavis mid-flight. "I informed him—'Observe outside, we cannot discern anything—no trees, no terrain, absolutely nothing. We are navigating blindly through these clouds. Where exactly are we headed?'" he stated. According to Pawar's account, Fadnavis responded with remarkable composure, advising him not to fret. "He asserted—'Do not concern yourself whatsoever. I have encountered six similar situations previously. Whenever I travel via helicopter or airplane and an incident occurs, I remain unharmed. Consequently, you will also be protected.'"
Pawar noted that this consolation provided minimal relief during that tense moment. "Internally, I pondered—'Oh dear, what is he articulating? I already experienced trepidation! Since today coincided with Ashadhi Ekadashi, I continuously recited 'Panduranga, Panduranga' mentally. And here was this 'Maharaj' offering me guidance,'" he remarked, eliciting amusement from listeners.
Safe Arrival and Final Reflections
He subsequently emphasized that despite the palpable fear, their journey concluded without incident. "It is the virtuous actions of his ancestors that ensured our secure arrival; those benevolent deeds assisted us," Pawar observed. Recalling the instant when terrestrial features finally became discernible, he said, "Uday Samant, seated to my right, exclaimed, 'Dada, Dada, observe! The ground is now visible.' I responded—'Thank divinity, we can perceive the ground presently!' Setting humor aside, everyone must exercise caution."
Details of the Fatal Accident
Official reports indicate that the Learjet conveying Pawar attempted landing at Baramati under reduced visibility conditions, executing a go-around maneuver before receiving renewed clearance. Shortly after obtaining authorization, the aircraft neglected to provide a mandatory read-back to air traffic control and plummeted near the runway, erupting into flames.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau has assumed control of the inquiry. Civil aviation minister K Rammohan Naidu confirmed that the jet was endeavoring to land amidst poor visibility. Operated by VSR Ventures Pvt Ltd, the aircraft transported five individuals aboard, including Pawar, his personal security officer Vidip Jadhav, flight attendant Pinky Mali, Captain Sumit Kapoor, and co-pilot Shambhavi Pathak. All occupants succumbed to fatal injuries.
National Mourning and Condolences
Pawar is survived by his spouse Sunetra, a Rajya Sabha parliamentarian, and two sons, Parth and Jay. The Maharashtra administration has proclaimed a three-day period of state mourning, with his final rites scheduled to occur with complete state honors in Baramati on Thursday. President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union home minister Amit Shah, alongside numerous other prominent figures, have conveyed profound condolences regarding his untimely passing.
