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Maharashtra is in deep mourning today as the mortal remains of Deputy Chief Minister and senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar reached his native village Katewadi in Baramati on January 29, 2026. The tragic plane crash on January 28 that claimed his life at age 66 has left a massive void in the state’s politics and the hearts of his supporters.
Known affectionately as ‘Ajit Dada’ across Maharashtra, Pawar’s final journey home stirred raw emotion. Thousands lined the roads from the Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Government Medical College in Baramati to Katewadi, his birthplace and the roots of his political rise. Supporters, many in tears, chanted slogans like “Ajit Dada Amar Rahe” as the flower-decorated vehicle carried his body.
The arrival at Katewadi marked a poignant “one last time” homecoming for the leader who built his career from this modest village to become one of Maharashtra’s most influential figures.
The Emotional Homecoming to Katewadi
Early morning, after post-mortem formalities, the mortal remains were transported to Pawar’s residence in Katewadi. Family members, including wife Sunetra Pawar and sons Jay and Parth, received the body amid heavy grief. Close relatives and local villagers gathered inside the home for private moments before the body was placed for public viewing.
Crowds swelled outside, with people from surrounding areas traveling overnight to catch a glimpse. The village, usually quiet, transformed into a sea of white kurtas and emotional faces—many recalling how ‘Dada’ helped with local issues, from water projects to farmer support.
This return to Katewadi holds special significance: it was here that Pawar’s political journey began decades ago, long before he became Maharashtra’s longest-serving Deputy CM (non-consecutively) and a key NCP figure.
Final Procession and State Funeral Arrangements
The mortal remains remained at Katewadi residence until 9 AM, allowing family and close associates to pay respects. At 9 AM, the body was moved to the G.D. Madgulkar Auditorium (Gadima) on the Vidya Pratishthan campus in Baramati for a public homage.
A grand funeral procession—carrying Pawar’s image on a flower-adorned rath with the message “Swargiya Ajitdada Pawar Amar Rahein”—started from the auditorium. It wound through key Baramati streets, giving thousands more a chance to bid farewell, before concluding at Vidya Pratishthan Ground.
The last rites, with full state honours, are scheduled for 11 AM at the Vidya Pratishthan sports ground—an educational institution founded by the Pawar family. The ceremony includes gun salute and national tributes.
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Prominent attendees include Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, CM Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, Sharad Pawar, and leaders across parties like Raj Thackeray. Maharashtra observed a state holiday and three days of mourning.
WATCH | MNS chief Raj Thackeray arrives at the Katewadi residence of late Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar to offer condolences and pay final respects. #AjitPawar #RajThackeray #Katewadi #Baramati #MaharashtraMourns
— CNN-News18 (@CNNnews18) January 29, 2026
Impact and Legacy in Maharashtra
Pawar’s sudden death in the chartered plane crash (en route from Mumbai to Baramati for Zilla Panchayat campaigning) has shocked the political landscape. The crash killed all five on board, including crew and security personnel.
As Maharashtra’s finance minister and deputy CM, he was known for bold decisions, irrigation projects, and navigating complex alliances. His death leaves a leadership vacuum in NCP and the Mahayuti government.
In Baramati—his stronghold—grief runs deep. Supporters view him as a son of the soil who elevated the region nationally. The emotional outpouring today reflects that bond.
From Mumbai to Baramati, one final journey that ended in tragedy. Ajit Pawar ji's sudden demise in the crash leaves an irreplaceable void in Maharashtra politics. May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti. 🙏 #AjitPawar
— Kongutte Siddharoodh (@KSidOnCricket) January 29, 2026
As Baramati and Maharashtra bid farewell, the final journey from Katewadi underscores a leader’s deep roots and the profound loss felt across the state.
