Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Awards 2026: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde took a lighthearted swipe at political opponents while speaking at the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Awards 2026 ceremony at the Gateway of India in Mumbai on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. The event was attended by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, actor Aamir Khan, actor Vicky Kaushal and several other prominent personalities from politics, cinema and public life.
Referring to Aamir Khan’s film Taare Zameen Par, Shinde humorously compared it to the political success of his alliance during the Maharashtra Assembly elections. “Actor Aamir Khan’s film Taare Zameen Par was a big hit. During the Assembly elections, we also released our own ‘film’ called Saare Zameen Par. It meant we brought all the opposition down to the ground. Just like Taare Zameen Par became a hit, our Saare Zameen Par was also a hit,” he said.
Shinde also praised Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis while drawing a humorous comparison with wrestling. “On one side we have a shining star of politics and on the other a star from the film industry. Devendraji is like a wrestler covered in oil — no one can catch him easily,” he said. Referring to Aamir Khan’s wrestling-based film Dangal, Shinde added that despite acting in such a film, even Khan would not be able to defeat Fadnavis in political wrestling.
During his speech, Shinde congratulated veteran Marathi actor Ashok Saraf, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the ceremony. In a lighthearted remark, he suggested that the Lokmat Group should also present Saraf with a showcase to store the many awards he has earned throughout his long career. Shinde praised Saraf’s immense contribution to Marathi theatre and cinema and said the joy he has given audiences over the years cannot be repaid.
Highlighting the purpose of the awards, Shinde said the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year initiative encourages individuals who have excelled in various fields. He noted that honoring such personalities provides inspiration to others and motivates people to contribute meaningfully to society. Shinde also congratulated the Lokmat Group for organizing the prestigious event and promoting excellence across different sectors.
The Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Awards, organized annually by the Lokmat Group, celebrate distinguished individuals from Maharashtra across sectors such as politics, cinema, sports, business and public service. The ceremony witnessed the presence of several ministers, senior officials, business leaders and members of the entertainment industry.