Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s mortal remains were brought to his ancestral village of Katewadi, located near Baramati in Pune district, as preparations for his final rites progressed following a tragic plane crash on January 28. Pawar, one of the longest-serving Deputy Chief Ministers of Maharashtra, died when a chartered aircraft carrying him and four others crashed during its approach to Baramati Airport.
The crash occurred in the early hours as Pawar was returning from a political engagement in Mumbai. The Learjet 45 aircraft lost control while attempting to land at the Baramati runway, which is known for challenging landing conditions, especially in low visibility. All five people on board, including Pawar, two pilots, a flight attendant, and a personal security officer, were killed on impact.
Katewadi, Pawar’s ancestral village, lies in Baramati taluka of Pune district. It has strong political connections with the Pawar family and has been the home of several generations. The village holds significant emotional and political value for local residents and workers of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), the party Pawar led in the state’s ruling coalition.
On the morning following his death, hundreds of mourners, including family, party workers, and local residents, gathered at Pawar’s residence in Katewadi. Supporters chanted slogans and paid their respects, describing Pawar as a leader who dedicated his life to public service and regional development. Many expressed that his loss represented a deep personal and political void.
The mortal remains were kept at Pawar’s Katewadi home, allowing local supporters to pay homage before a larger funeral procession moved toward Baramati. The state government has declared a period of official mourning and has organized full state honours for the ceremony. Preparations at the Vidya Pratishthan grounds in Baramati have been underway, where the final rites are set to be conducted.
Political leaders from across India are expected to attend the funeral, reflecting Pawar’s influence in national and regional politics. As a seasoned leader, he had held various portfolios and served multiple terms as Deputy Chief Minister under different administrations. His sudden death has sent shockwaves through Maharashtra’s political landscape, prompting reactions of grief and tributes from leaders nationwide.
Born on July 22, 1959, in Deolali Pravara village in Ahmednagar district, Pawar rose through state politics over several decades. He was known for his close involvement in cooperative institutions and grassroots governance, which helped shape his political identity. His leadership was seen as central to the governance of Maharashtra, particularly in rural and agricultural policy areas.
The process of mourning and the ceremonies in Katewadi and Baramati highlight both the personal and public impact of Ajit Pawar’s life and career. As family, friends, and political colleagues prepare for his final rites, the state reflects on his legacy and service, while also facing the immediate task of political transition after the loss of a significant leader.
