Remembering Dada: Voices from those who knew him closely

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

As the state mourns the loss of Ajit Dada, memories shared by those who worked with him, met him, and observed him up close reveal a leader defined not just by authority, but by empathy, simplicity, and trust. From grassroots social work to quiet personal gestures, these voices reflect how Dada touched lives in different ways through assurance, humility, and an unwavering commitment to people over power.

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Dada’s care and simplicity

I come from Phulambri, which is also the village of Ajit Dada’s maternal aunt, so he often visited. In 2013, during the severe drought, he was touring Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. As he was heading to Shri Kshetra Paithan, I requested him to spare five minutes to visit a dam in Kaudgaon built through public contribution. I felt nervous, yet hopeful. I watched him arrive at the site with former minister Rajesh Tope, Fauzia Khan, and district officials. His eyes carefully examined every detail. I guided him to the tree whose branch was seen submerged in the photographs I had shown earlier. When he personally verified that the same branch matched both the photos and the site, I felt deep relief and pride. Only then did I sense his complete satisfaction.

— Kishor Shitole, BJP City President

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Dada’s love for Yusuf Bhai’s biryani

Whenever late Ajit Pawar visited Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, we saw him stay in the VIP suite at Subhedari Vishramgruha without exception. Whether it was lunch or dinner, he always preferred the biryani prepared by our cook, Yusuf Bhai. Yusuf Bhai is no longer with us, but we still remember those moments fondly. If any facility was missing in the VIP suite, he would politely convey it through his personal assistant. We never saw him complain or make demands. We witnessed his simple lifestyle, humility, and respectful behaviour towards everyone. His modesty and warmth left a lasting impression on all of us.

— Staff of Subhedari Guest House

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A leader who kept his word

I believe he was truly one of a kind. In 2010, he assured me, “Don’t take any tension. I will make you a corporator. You just focus on your work and don’t worry about anything else.” Those words gave me confidence and direction. Later, when he came to Sambhajinagar, he told party workers that it was entirely their choice where they wished to be, that they could remain in any faction, and that it would never upset him. That openness and trust reflected the kind of leader he was. Today, with his passing, our party has suffered an enormous and irreparable loss.

— Abhijeet Deshmukh, NCP (AP) City president

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Last Memorandum meeting

I met the late deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar in Mumbai on Tuesday to request urgent funding for the Dharmaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj memorial in Khultabad. He listened patiently to every point I raised and assured me that substantial funds would be allocated in the upcoming budget. He also emphasized that every technical aspect of the memorial must be carefully considered. Today, hearing the news of his tragic death in a plane crash, I feel an overwhelming sense of loss. That meeting, full of hope and purpose, was the last I would have with him. His encouragement and vision will remain etched in my heart forever.

- MLC, Sanjay Kenekar

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Fond memories of pawar

In 2010, the late deputy chief Minister Ajit Pawar came to our city for the inauguration of my shop. He spent a lot of time talking with my family and me, despite his busy schedule. I still remember what he said during the inauguration, when I was a corporator: “Baba, if you face any problem call me . I am here.” His words were simple but reassuring, and they stayed with me. Even today, I remember his warmth and care.

— Akram Patel, former corporator