Nationalist Congress Party (SP) MP Supriya Sule on Wednesday, 22 July paid a deeply personal tribute to her late cousin brother and former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on his birth anniversary, saying she found it difficult to call the day a jayanti given the grief that still weighs on the family and the state. The tribute came amid widespread remembrances across Maharashtra, with the state government formally including Ajit Pawar's birth anniversary in its annual roster of notable public observances.

Sule's Personal Message

Sule recalled how Ajit Pawar — referred to affectionately as 'Dada' — always cast a 'shadow of affection' over his siblings. In her tribute, she said: 'It feels as though you are still around us. We miss you, Dada. Today, my heart is crowded with many memories... The sorrow that this shadow is no longer over us siblings will remain forever.'

She praised his visionary leadership, administrative calibre, and relentless commitment to public service, noting that citizens across Maharashtra continue to remember his discipline, work ethic, and sharp oratory. Sule acknowledged the enduring pain felt by both her family and the people of Maharashtra following his tragic passing earlier this year.

Jayant Patil Recalls 35 Years of Friendship

Former minister and NCP(SP) veteran Jayant Patil, a long-time associate of the late deputy chief minister, posted on X: 'My friendship with Ajitdada dates back to 1985. We entered public life almost at the same time and worked together for over 35 years. We experienced all emotions together — joy, sorrow, success, failure. In many matters, we were in complete agreement, and in some, we held differing views, but through discussion, we always arrived at a consensus.'

Patil added: 'The annual tradition of unfailingly wishing Dada on his birthday was broken this year. After 35 years of friendship, Dada left too soon. This will remain my eternal grievance with him. Humble salutations on the anniversary of your birth. Heartfelt birthday wishes, Dada.'

Rohit Pawar's Tribute

NCP(SP) legislator Rohit Pawar, who is Ajit Pawar's nephew, also shared his grief, saying: 'Ajitdada, the void of your absence is felt everywhere today, yet your presence will remain eternal for us forever..! Even though it's your jayanti on paper today, for us, it's your birthday.. That's why, on your birthday, heartfelt birthday wishes to you, Dada!'

State Recognition and Legacy

The Maharashtra state government's decision to include Ajit Pawar's birth anniversary in its official calendar of public observances underscores the scale of his administrative legacy. His contributions to the state's development — spanning infrastructure, water resources, and rural governance — remain a reference point in Maharashtra's political discourse.

As tributes pour in from across the political spectrum, the outpouring reflects not just personal loss but the absence of a figure whose influence shaped Maharashtra's governance for decades. How his legacy is carried forward by his party and family will be watched closely in the months ahead.