The shocking plane crash that killed Maharashtra’s towering political figure Ajit Pawar has drawn an emotional response from badminton star PV Sindhu. Flying from Mumbai to a rally in Baramati, Pawar’s aircraft plummeted Wednesday morning, snuffing out six lives including the Deputy CM’s.
PV Sindhu, fresh off her Olympic triumphs, took to X to pour out her heart. ‘RIP Ajit Dada. Your discipline, work ethic, and affection for your people always impressed me during our meetings,’ she wrote. The ace shuttler lamented, ‘You kept inviting me to Baramati, but I never made it. This regret haunts me now.’
Among the victims were pilots Captain Shambhavi Pathak and Sumit Kapoor, Pinki Mali, and security officer Vidyip Jadhav. Sindhu offered deep sympathies, beseeching divine solace for shattered families.
A political heavyweight, Pawar dominated Baramati assembly seat for seven terms since 1991, powered by the cooperative movement. His recent appointment as Maharashtra Olympic Association head for 2025-29 highlighted his sports involvement. Pawar’s 16-year stint leading Pune District Cooperative Bank amplified his sway over sugar mills and dairy sectors.
Serving under four CMs, he managed critical areas like irrigation, energy, and rural growth. Pawar’s demise marks a seismic shift in Maharashtra’s power dynamics, especially with elections looming. Sindhu’s tribute paints a picture of a leader who connected personally with stars like her, blending politics with genuine mentorship.
As investigations into the crash begin, the nation mourns a veteran whose legacy spans cooperatives, governance, and quiet athlete support.