Baramati this Thursday stood still in grief as the mortal remains of Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, were brought to the Vidya Pratishthan ground amid a sea of mourners, political leaders, and grieving supporters. The senior leader, who died tragically in a plane crash on January 28, was accorded full state honours as the community and political fraternity gathered to pay their final respects.
The solemn procession began early in the morning, moving from Pawar’s Katewadi residence through the town’s streets to the Vidya Pratishthan campus where preparations for his final rites were underway. A large, flower‑adorned chariot carrying his remains bore the message “Swargiya Ajitdada Pawar amar rahein” a tribute that reflected the deep emotional connection he shared with people in Baramati and beyond.
#WATCH | Baramati | Mortal remains of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, wrapped in Tricolour, brought to Vidya Pratishthan ground for the last rites pic.twitter.com/eI7t8vyKlW
— ANI (@ANI) January 29, 2026
Crowds lined the route, some with folded hands, others chanting “Ajit Dada amar rahe” (Long live Ajit Dada), as a palpable wave of sorrow and respect rippled through the town. Leaders from across the spectrum including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and state dignitaries arrived to honour Pawar’s legacy and stand with his family during this painful moment.
Pawar’s sudden passing has left a significant void in Maharashtra’s political landscape. A prominent figure with decades of public service across multiple administrations, he was on his way to Baramati for election engagements when his chartered aircraft crashed near the Baramati airstrip. The tragedy claimed his life and that of four others aboard.
Today’s ceremony was not only a state event but a deeply personal moment for his family his wife Sunetra Pawar and sons Parth and Jay were seen paying their respects alongside party members and ordinary citizens alike. The rituals at Vidya Pratishthan mixed ceremonial gravity with heartfelt grief, symbolising both the end of a chapter and the beginning of collective remembrance.
As the sun climbed higher over Baramati, thousands remained united some in silence, others in song honouring a leader who shaped regional politics and inspired many. The last rites, performed with full ceremonial dignity, offered closure to a grieving community even as the investigation into the tragic crash continues.
Ajit Pawar’s legacy will likely reverberate long after today’s final farewell, as Baramati and Maharashtra reflect on a life devoted to public service and leadership that touched countless lives.
