Ajit Pawar's Comic Genius: How His Wit Electrified Maharashtra Politics
The late Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar was renowned not just for his political acumen but for his impeccable comic timing and earthy wit, which often kept audiences riveted and cut through the monotony of political discourse. His ability to blend humor with sharp observations made him a standout figure in Maharashtra's political landscape, leaving a lasting impression on both supporters and critics alike.
The Press Conference Quip That Went Viral
In December 2024, during a press conference in Mumbai as the Mahayuti government was being formed amidst political uncertainties, a reporter posed a question to Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, and Ajit Pawar. The reporter asked if Fadnavis would take oath as Chief Minister, and whether Shinde and Pawar would be sworn in as deputy CMs. Shinde began a measured response, urging patience until evening. However, Pawar cut in with a trademark quip in Hindi laced with Marathi inflection: "Shaam tak unka samajh mein aayega, main toh le raha hoon!" (His situation will be clear by evening, I am surely going to take the oath!). This remark drew immediate laughter, showcasing Pawar's quick wit and ability to lighten tense moments.
Shinde's Smart Comeback and the Raj Bhavan Reference
Interestingly, Eknath Shinde countered Pawar's viral quip with an even smarter comeback. He said in Hindi, "Dada has experience, of taking oath in the morning and evening too," a pointed reference to Pawar and Fadnavis taking oath in an early morning ceremony at the Raj Bhavan in 2019. This comment elicited even bigger laughter and applause, with Pawar himself joining in, highlighting the playful yet sharp exchanges that characterized their interactions.
The NASA and Stray Cattle Contrast: A Masterclass in Humor
In another speech delivered in Pune district a few months ago, Pawar was discussing how the government facilitated visits of school students to NASA in the United States. At that moment, he received a note from the audience, which he read out loud. The note asked him about controlling stray cattle in a particular village. Visibly irritated at first, Pawar quickly turned to humor, saying, "How do you react to this now? Here I am talking about a visit to NASA, here you are asking about stray cattle." In his signature comic tone, he added, "Bring the person who has sent this note, I will felicitate him by breaking the ceremonial coconut on his head." Despite the jest, Pawar then spoke in detail about handling stray animal issues, demonstrating his ability to blend levity with serious discussion.
Rooted in Reality: Insights from Sayaji Shinde
Senior film and theatre actor Sayaji Shinde, associated with the NCP since 2024, noted that Pawar's humor flowed from being deeply grounded in reality. He said, "Ajitdada was deeply rooted in reality. His firm grasp of administrative, political, and social issues gave him a sharp, astute vision—and sharp humor, after all, comes from sharp observation." Shinde also highlighted Pawar's effortless command over the Marathi of the masses, which made his wit instantly relatable. This lighter side extended beyond public speeches into personal interactions, such as when Pawar casually told his aide, "Ja re te kuthe ulathala aahe bagh" (go check where he's toppled), showcasing his earthy, big-hearted personality.
Controversies and the Edge of Blunt Humor
However, Pawar's blunt, no-filter humor sometimes sparked controversies. Over 12 years ago, during a speech at Indapur in Pune, his comments related to dam water shortage drew criticism from the Opposition and his own party leaders for mocking farmers reeling under drought, prompting an apology from him. This incident underscored how his sharp wit could occasionally cross lines, reflecting the fine balance he maintained between humor and sensitivity in political discourse.
Ajit Pawar's legacy in Maharashtra politics is not just defined by his administrative roles but by his unique ability to infuse humor into the political sphere, making complex issues accessible and engaging for the masses. His comic timing and earthy wit remain a cherished part of his persona, remembered fondly by many across the state.
