'Lost My Elder Brother': Eknath Shinde Pays Tribute To Ajit Pawar, Recalls Years Of Association

Last Updated:January 28, 2026, 12:36 IST

Maharashtra Deputy CM and NCP leader Ajit Pawar died in a plane crash on Wednesday. Eknath Shinde mourned him as an "elder brother" and praised his leadership and dedication.

Eknath Shinde remembered Ajit Pawar with a heavy heart following his death. (Image: PTI/photo)

As tributes continue to pour in following the untimely demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP leader Ajit Pawar, Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde expressed sorrow over the tragedy. While speaking about his cabinet colleague, who died in a plane crash earlier today, Shinde became emotional and said that Ajit Pawar was like an “elder brother" to him.

“Today, I feel as if I’ve lost my elder brother. Ajit Pawar was not just a leader, but a learned, punctual, and strong-willed personality with a firm grip on administration," Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said, describing the loss as deeply personal.

Pawar lost his life when the aircraft he was travelling in met with a fatal accident while attempting to make an emergency landing near Baramati. The tragedy has plunged the state into mourning, with condolences pouring in from political leaders, officials, and members of the public. On receiving news of the crash, Shinde immediately left for Baramati. Before departing, he spoke to the media and reflected on his long association with Pawar.

“We worked together for many years. Ajit Pawar would start his work early in the morning. I have personally seen him giving orders even at six in the morning. He would speak only after thoroughly studying each subject. Though he had a straightforward nature, his heart was extremely pure," Shinde said.

He added that Pawar played a key role during discussions on the state’s finances, often presenting a realistic assessment and offering clear direction. “His experience, diligence, and administrative acumen were a guiding force for all of us," he noted.

Recalling that he had met Pawar just a day or two earlier, Shinde said the loss was immeasurable. “Today, his passing is a huge loss not just for the Pawar family, but for the entire state of Maharashtra. I pay my heartfelt tribute to him," he said.

Ajit Pawar’s death marks the loss of a seasoned leader whose contribution to Maharashtra’s politics and governance will be remembered for years to come.

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