Maharashtra and the wider entertainment world were plunged into grief on Wednesday after news broke that Ajit Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, died in a tragic plane crash near Baramati in Pune district. Pawar, who had been serving as the state’s deputy chief minister and was a veteran political figure, was among five people killed when the small aircraft he was travelling in crash-landed during its approach to Baramati airport earlier in the day.
The aircraft, identified as a Learjet 45, was carrying Pawar from Mumbai to Baramati, where he was due to attend election-related events. Officials confirmed there were no survivors among the five on board, which included two crew members and Pawar’s personal staff.
Pawar’s sudden death sent waves of shock across political and cultural spheres, with tributes pouring in from leaders across party lines. Maharashtra has declared a three-day mourning period and official events have been paused in respect of his contributions to public life.
Beyond the political reactions, Pawar’s death also drew heartfelt responses from figures in the Bollywood industry. Leading stars shared their condolences and expressed shock at the loss of a major public figure. Actor Kangana Ranaut was among those paying tribute, reflecting on the unexpected nature of the tragedy. Leading actor Ajay Devgn also acknowledged Pawar’s passing, as did Riteish Deshmukh, whose Instagram tribute shared his sadness over the news. Celebrities highlighted how Pawar’s influence extended beyond politics and into public consciousness, and used their platforms to mourn his passing.
Shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Hon. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar ji. My heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones and all those affected by this immense loss.
Om Shanti 🙏🏻— Ajay Devgn (@ajaydevgn) January 28, 2026
Ajit Pawar’s political career spanned several decades and included multiple tenures as Deputy Chief Minister. He was known for being a longstanding leader in Maharashtra’s political landscape and had served in that role on several occasions under different governments. His sudden departure from public life has been widely described as a profound loss for the state.
The crash itself has prompted immediate investigation. Officials from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation and accident investigation teams are expected to examine the wreckage and flight data to determine what went wrong during the final moments of the flight. Early reports indicate the jet was attempting a second landing when the crash occurred, with no distress call issued before impact.
Political leaders both within Maharashtra and nationally have shared their grief and solidarity with Pawar’s family. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde described the loss as akin to losing an elder brother and noted that Pawar’s absence would be deeply felt in governance and policymaking. Condolences also came from senior figures in other states, highlighting the reach of Pawar’s political relationships.
Local residents and supporters gathered at Baramati following the news, many visibly shaken at the sudden end to Pawar’s public service. The scene at the crash site and subsequent hospital identification efforts underscored the scale of the tragedy and the emotional impact it has had on those who knew him personally or through his long tenure in public office.