Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:
With the demise of state’s deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar, the entire state has been plunged into grief. Known as a disciplined and tough administrator, Ajit Pawar also had a simple, sensitive side that connected deeply with ordinary people, something the citizens had experienced firsthand. Following his passing, those memories have once again stirred emotions.
On October 9, 2018, Ajit Pawar and MP Supriya Sule visited Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar for the ‘Samvidhan Bachao’ rally. After the programme, instead of following any VIP protocol, convoy arrangements or five-star hotel formalities, Pawar’s vehicle turned directly towards a well-known sweet shop in the old city. The aroma of hot, freshly prepared imarti and bhajiyas seemed to beckon him.
Sitting at a simple table like any other customer, Ajit Pawar relished imarti and bhajiyas to his heart’s content. He was accompanied by MLCs Satish Chavan and Vikram Kale, who narrated the history of the city’s famous delicacies. It was not merely about enjoying food, but about his bond with ordinary people and his comfort in living life on their terms.
The real taste is at roadside stalls
Speaking to journalists on the occasion, Pawar summed up his simple outlook on life. “Five-star hotels have only show and pomp, but real affection and taste are found in small eateries or in tea at a roadside stall,” he had said. Even at the pinnacle of power, he found joy among common people and in simple flavours of life.
During the visit, Supriya Sule interacted with the staff preparing imarti and even took selfies with them. These eight-year-old memories have now resurfaced vividly in the minds of city residents. They remembered him for his love for the tasty imarti-bhajiyas and his grounded nature which will live on forever.
Loved it so much that he took a parcel
“When Ajit Pawar and Supriya Sule suddenly walked into our hotel, we were momentarily confused about how to make arrangements for them,” recalled Subhash Kachhwah, the hotel owner. “As we tried to arrange separate seating, Ajit Dada said it wasn’t necessary and insisted on sitting on the bench and eating imarti like everyone else. His simplicity taught me a lifelong lesson. He liked the food so much that he even took a parcel along,” he said.