Batting icon Sachin Tendulkar on Wednesday paid an emotional tribute to senior Maharashtra leader Ajit Pawar, who passed away in a tragic plane crash in the Pune district earlier in the day. The aircraft carrying Pawar and four others reportedly crashed on landing in Baramati, sending shockwaves across the state and the political fraternity.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Tendulkar expressed his grief and offered condolences to Pawar’s family and supporters. “Very sad to learn about the untimely demise of Shri Ajit Pawar ji. Maharashtra has lost a dedicated leader who worked for the people across the state. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti,” Tendulkar wrote, echoing the sentiments of millions mourning the loss.
In a mark of respect, the Maharashtra government announced three days of state mourning from January 28 to January 30. An official communication from the General Administration Department confirmed that the national flag will be flown at half-mast on all government buildings where it is regularly displayed. Additionally, all official entertainment activities have been suspended during the mourning period.
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The state government also declared that all government offices across Maharashtra would remain closed on Wednesday following the demise. The directive, issued by Under Secretary H P Baviskar, instructed authorities to ensure immediate and strict compliance with the guidelines.
अजित पवार यांच्या निधनाची बातमी ऐकून खूप दुःख झाले. महाराष्ट्रासाठी काम करणारा एक चांगला नेता आज आपण अचानक गमावला आहे. पवार कुटुंबियांच्या दुःखात मी सहभागी आहे. ईश्वर त्यांच्या आत्म्यास शांती देवो.
भावपूर्ण श्रद्धांजली. ॐ शांती. 🙏🏽Very sad to learn about the untimely demise of…
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) January 28, 2026
Ajit Pawar, born on July 22, 1959, to Asha and Anantrao Pawar, carved out a formidable political career spanning over four decades. Inspired by his uncle Sharad Pawar, he entered public life in 1982 through the cooperative sector and was elected to the Lok Sabha from Baramati in 1991. He later vacated the seat for Sharad Pawar, who went on to serve as India’s Defence Minister.
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A towering figure in Maharashtra politics, Pawar went on to serve as Baramati MLA for eight consecutive terms. Known for his discipline, sharp administrative skills, and punctuality, he held the distinction of serving as Deputy Chief Minister multiple times under governments led by the Congress, Shiv Sena, and BJP.
Fondly referred to as “Dada,” Ajit Pawar was admired for his straightforward approach and deep connect with rural Maharashtra. His passing leaves a void not just in politics, but in the public life of the state he served with unwavering commitment.
