The state of Maharashtra was plunged into deep mourning on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, following the shocking news of the untimely demise of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. The veteran leader, widely known as ‘Dada’, passed away in a tragic plane crash near Baramati. The incident occurred around 8:45 AM when his chartered Learjet 45, traveling from Mumbai, faced technical difficulties and burst into flames during a landing attempt.

As news of the catastrophe spread, a wave of grief swept across the nation, transcending political boundaries. Among the first to express his profound sorrow was Bharat Ratna Sachin Tendulkar, who shared a long-standing mutual respect with the leader. Tendulkar, deeply moved by the loss of a figure who played a pivotal role in the state’s administration and sports infrastructure, joined millions in paying tribute to the departed soul.

Sachin Tendulkar’s heartfelt tribute to Ajit Pawar

Tendulkar took to social media to express his shock and offer his condolences to the Pawar family. Recognizing Pawar’s relentless work ethic and his commitment to the development of Maharashtra, the “Master blaster” highlighted the massive vacuum left by his passing.

Sachin Tendulkar took to social media wrote:

“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.”

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

Tendulkar’s words resonated with many who saw Pawar not just as a politician, but as a grassroots administrator who was deeply connected to the soil of Maharashtra. His influence extended beyond the corridors of power in Mantralaya to the rural heartlands of Baramati and beyond, where he was instrumental in fostering cooperative movements and local governance.

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Ajinkya Rahane and the cricket fraternity join the mourning

The grief was echoed by other prominent figures in the Indian cricketing fraternity, including Indian batter Ajinkya Rahane. Rahane, a proud Mumbaikar, has often seen the impact of the Deputy CM’s initiatives in the state. Expressing his grief on social media, Rahane emphasized Pawar’s role as a visionary who served with integrity.

In a poignant message, Rahane stated ,”Saddened by the tragic passing of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar dada. My thoughts are with his family.” 

Saddened by the tragic passing of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar dada. My thoughts are with his family. 🙏

— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) January 28, 2026

Other cricketers, including Yusuf Pathan and Mohammad Azharuddin, also joined in, calling for a thorough investigation into the crash while praying for the bereaved family. The Maharashtra government has declared a three-day state mourning to honour the memory of the 66-year-old leader.

Deeply shaken by the news of Mr. Ajit Pawar’s plane crash. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his family find the strength and courage to endure this profound loss.

— Mohammed Azharuddin (@azharflicks) January 28, 2026

Deeply saddened by the untimely demise of the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Mr Ajit Pawar in the tragic plane crash. He was a dedicated leader who served the state with utmost commitment and integrity. His contributions to public service and the development of the…

— Yusuf Pathan (@iamyusufpathan) January 28, 2026

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