Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar’s mortal remains were brought to his ancestral village Katewadi in Baramati on Thursday morning as final rites preparations continued following his death in a tragic plane crash earlier this week. Pawar, 66, was among five people killed when a chartered aircraft attempting to land at Baramati Airport crashed on January 28, prompting widespread shock and mourning across the state.
The funeral arrangements have been organised in Baramati, where Pawar had deep political roots and maintained a strong public presence. Officials said the mortal remains were first placed at his Katewadi residence to allow close family members, local residents and supporters to pay tribute before a larger public gathering. The body was then scheduled to be taken to a public venue for the next stage of funeral proceedings.
Authorities have arranged for the funeral procession to commence from G.D. Madgulkar Auditorium (also referred to as Gadima Auditorium) at around 9 am, moving through Baramati’s streets to the Vidya Pratishthan ground. The cremation ceremony with full state honours is expected to take place at around 11 am, with dignitaries, senior political leaders and officials in attendance.
State government officials confirmed that security has been tightened in and around Baramati in anticipation of large crowds. Supporters from across the region have gathered to pay their respects and participate in the final rites. Many have expressed deep grief at Pawar’s sudden death, describing it as a significant loss for Maharashtra’s political landscape.
Pawar’s career spanned several decades, during which he held key political and administrative roles in Maharashtra. Known fondly as “Ajit Dada” among his supporters, he served multiple terms as Deputy Chief Minister and was respected for his extensive work in local development, cooperative movements and governance. His influence extended across rural and urban areas, making him one of the most prominent leaders in the state’s political history.
The plane crash that claimed Pawar’s life also killed four others on board, including two crew members and staff accompanying him. Initial investigations by aviation authorities and forensic teams are underway to determine the cause of the accident near the Baramati airfield. Early reports indicate that the aircraft may have encountered difficulties during the approach to the runway, but official findings are pending.
The state government has declared a period of official mourning, and flags are being flown at half-mast at government buildings across Maharashtra. A public holiday was also announced to mark the occasion and facilitate widespread participation in the funeral ceremonies.
Political leaders from across India are expected to attend the funeral, reflecting Pawar’s stature and the impact of his contributions to public life. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, among other national and state figures, were reported to be present or en route to Baramati for the ceremonies.
As arrangements continue, supporters and residents of Baramati and Pune district are united in grief, remembering Ajit Pawar for his decades of public service and leadership. The funeral proceedings at Katewadi and Baramati mark the end of a remarkable political journey and a significant moment in Maharashtra’s contemporary political history.
