Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was cremated with full state honours in his hometown of Baramati on Thursday, as thousands of supporters gathered to bid a tearful farewell to the beloved Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader. The emotional event followed his tragic death in a plane crash at Baramati airport on Wednesday, which claimed all five lives on board.
Massive Turnout and Emotional Scenes
From early morning, a sea of mourners converged at the Vidya Pratishthan ground in Baramati, where the last rites were performed. Shops, hotels, educational institutes, and business establishments remained closed for the second consecutive day, reflecting the city's deep sense of loss. The crowd included supporters from across party lines, NCP leaders, and ordinary citizens, many with eyes brimming with tears as they tried to catch a final glimpse of 'Ajitdada', as he was affectionately known.
Funeral Rites and High-Profile Attendance
Ajit Pawar's sons, Parth and Jay, lit the funeral pyre around 12.15 pm, with chants of "Amar Rahe" echoing through the air. The body was brought to the ground from his Katewadi home, where it had been placed for public viewing. Among the dignitaries present were Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union Ministers Nitin Gadkari and Murlidhar Mohol, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, MNS chief Raj Thackeray, and MPCC chief Harshavardhan Sapkal. Family members, including his wife Sunetra Pawar, uncle Sharad Pawar, and cousin Supriya Sule, were also in attendance.
Personal Tributes from Supporters
Supporters shared heartfelt memories, highlighting Ajit Pawar's impact on their lives. Sudam Tambe, who traveled from Parbhani district, said, "Ajitdada always kept his word and respected even ordinary workers. I will always salute him for caring for everyone." Baramati residents like Kavita Gadge and Asha Bhole credited him with the city's all-round development, noting his contributions to education and infrastructure. Baba Dhobale, a teacher, added, "He backed every person he met, and my family thrived because of him."
Crowd Management and Sloganeering
The police had to intervene to manage the overwhelming crowd, as some climbed trees and stood atop vehicles to witness the rites. Slogans like "Ekach Vaada, Ajitdada" and "Ajitdada, Amar Rahe" reached a crescendo during the ceremony. Rekha Gaikwad, a homemaker, expressed the collective grief, saying, "We never thought we'd see him like this. He was our breath and inspiration." Student Avdhoot Pawar described him as the "pride of Maharashtra," lamenting the loss of a role model.
Legacy and Impact
Ajit Pawar's death marks a significant moment in Maharashtra politics, given his widespread popularity and influence. The massive turnout and emotional outpouring underscore his legacy as a leader who connected deeply with people across social strata. His contributions to Baramati's growth and his disciplined life continue to inspire many, as the city mourns the loss of a figure who shaped its destiny.
