Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar jointly inaugurated a commemorative photo exhibition titled 'Ajit Smruti Avit Smruti' ('Ajit — Memories That Never Fade') in Mumbai on Tuesday, 21 July 2026, marking the 67th birth anniversary of the late former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar.

Context

The exhibition was inaugurated to honour the personal, social, and political journey of the late Ajit Pawar, a towering figure in Maharashtra's Nationalist Congress Party and the cooperative sector. Photographs spanning different phases of his life were put on display for the public. CM Fadnavis appealed to citizens to visit the exhibition and view the images documenting the various milestones of the late leader's life.

Also present at the event were Minister Girish Mahajan, Minister Prakash Abitkar, Minister Babasaheb Patil, and several other dignitaries, reflecting broad political participation in the tribute.

Policy Backdrop

Ajit Pawar served as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra across multiple tenures and was a central figure in the state's cooperative sector, particularly in sugar cooperatives in western Maharashtra. His political career stretched over several decades in the Nationalist Congress Party, where he wielded significant influence over both legislative affairs and grassroots networks.

Maharashtra's political landscape has historically seen recurring alliances and realignments between the BJP and NCP factions since 2014. Cross-party commemorative gestures following the passing of senior leaders have become a visible feature of this dynamic, with such exhibitions serving as public markers of a departed leader's legacy.

Stakeholders and Impact

NCP workers, political families, and citizens of Maharashtra are the primary audience for the 'Ajit Smruti Avit Smruti' exhibition. For the late leader's family, the event carries deep personal significance, with Sunetra Ajit Pawar co-inaugurating the exhibition in her capacity as Deputy Chief Minister. The presence of senior cabinet ministers signals the state government's formal acknowledgement of Ajit Pawar's contributions to Maharashtra.

The exhibition also functions as a bridge between political generations, allowing younger citizens and party workers to engage with the documented history of one of the state's most prominent leaders.

What's Next

The state government and NCP are expected to hold further commemorative events through the anniversary period. Observers will watch for any announcements regarding the naming of public infrastructure or welfare schemes in honour of the late Ajit Pawar, a common form of institutional tribute in Maharashtra's political tradition. The exhibition in Mumbai is likely to draw visitors from across the state over the coming days.