Remembering Ajit Pawar: 10 Times His Humour Lit Up Political Stages (Watch Video)

As the sudden demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar left the nation in mourning, many remembered him not only as a powerful political leader but also as someone who brought humour and ease into public life. Known for his blunt honesty and quick wit, Pawar often lightened serious moments with spontaneous remarks. Here are 10 memorable instances when Ajit Pawar made people laugh, even while addressing weighty political and social issues.

1) When a Serious Drought Led to an Infamous On-Stage Joke
One of the most controversial yet widely remembered moments of Ajit Pawar’s career dates back to April 2013, during a public rally in Indapur, Pune. Maharashtra was battling a severe drought, and farmer Prabhakar Deshmukh from Solapur had been on a hunger strike at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan for over 50 days, demanding water release from the Ujani dam. Addressing the issue, Pawar said, "He has been on a fast for the last 55 days. If there is no water in the dam, how can we release it? Should we urinate into it? If there is no water to drink, even urination is not possible." Though later termed his biggest political mistake, the remark drew laughter from the rally crowd despite the controversy it sparked.

In the same speech, he also joked about power cuts in the state, saying, "I have also come to know that there is a shortage of electricity in Maharashtra. Every night, the electricity cut is being witnessed, and since then, the population has been increasing. People have nothing to do without electricity.” The off-colour joke was criticised but remembered for Pawar’s trademark candid delivery.

2) The Oath-Taking Moment That Lightened Political Tension
During the formation of the Mahayuti government after the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections, speculation surrounded former Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s dissatisfaction over leadership changes. When asked whether he would take oath as Deputy Chief Minister, Shinde responded vaguely. Ajit Pawar quickly stepped in and said, “I don't know about anyone else, but I am going to take the oath.” His remark instantly eased the political tension and drew laughter from those present.

Shinde further added humour by remarking that Pawar had experience taking oaths both in the morning and evening, referencing the dramatic early-morning oath ceremony of 2019. The exchange became a light-hearted highlight amid an otherwise serious political moment.

3) A Cultural Quip That Had the Audience Smiling
While praising MLA Anna Bansode’s work in Pimpri-Chinchwad, Ajit Pawar remarked, “Anna may be short in stature, but his work is big.” Turning to former MLA Vilas Lande seated behind him, Pawar added with a smile, “This man has a big stature -- don’t ask about the work.” He followed this with a popular village saying, “Gadi angann ubha ni adawa, tyaachya rupaat gaavran godava.”

The line referenced the famous Marathi song Disla Ga Bai Disla from the film Pinjara, describing a tall, broad-built man with striking looks. The cultural reference and playful comparison left the audience laughing and added warmth to the event.

4) When Ajit Pawar Joked About His Age and Admissions Problems
While addressing a gathering on the management of local educational institutions in Kharalwadi, Pune, Ajit Pawar was informed that a college was struggling with student admissions. Responding humorously, he said, "I've been told about this college in Kharalwadi... they say they need more students. Look, I’ve reached an age where I can’t personally go and 'bring' students to your college anymore. If I were younger, I would have handled it differently, but now you have to do your own work!" The remark drew laughter while subtly stressing responsibility.

5) Turning a Love Declaration Into a Voting Message
Just weeks before his passing, during a rally in Pimpri-Chinchwad, an enthusiastic supporter shouted, "Dada, we love you!" Ajit Pawar immediately responded from the stage, saying, "Keep that 'I love you' for your wife at home! Here, just make sure you press the 'Clock' button on the voting machine. That’s the only love I need right now." The crowd erupted in laughter as Pawar converted a sentimental shout into a crisp political message.

6) A Self-Deprecating Joke That Showed His Political Mileage
During a campaign speech in Rajgurunagar, a supporter sent Ajit Pawar a chit advising him about his appearance, suggesting the turban was not suitable. Reading the note aloud, Pawar replied with self-deprecating humour, saying, "Look at me, I’ve lost all my hair (takkal) in this politics, and yet people still try to teach me! Now, should I listen to you or look at my own experience?" The joke highlighted his long political journey and drew loud applause.

7) A One-Liner That Stole the Press Conference Spotlight
After the Mahayuti government was formed in 2024, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar addressed a joint press conference in Mumbai. As Shinde jokingly remarked that “the seating sequence has changed a bit,” Pawar quickly responded, “It doesn’t go out of one’s mind.” The quick retort sparked laughter and showcased Pawar’s sharp presence even in formal settings.

8) Sharp Family Banter Mixed With Political Punchlines
At an event in Sangli, Ajit Pawar’s nephew Rohit Pawar made a sarcastic remark suggesting that Pawar should pay more attention to his family. When Ajit Pawar took the stage later, he responded with his trademark wit, saying, “Some people say Dada focuses on the village and not the family. It’s only because I paid attention to you that you became an MLA! Ask Jayant Patil how many votes you won because of postal ballots. So don’t mess with me; you do your work, and I’ll do mine.” The sharp exchange drew laughter from the audience.

At the same event, when the host praised Jayant Patil’s looks, Pawar added another humorous jab, saying, “They called Jayant Patil a ‘handsome’ leader, but what about me? Am I not good-looking? You invite us all the way to Walva, Jayant Patil’s stronghold, just to wash us out without even using water?” The playful sarcasm once again entertained the crowd.

9) A Blunt Reality Check for Students, Delivered With Humour
After the Maharashtra 10th and 12th board results were announced last year, Ajit Pawar made a remark highlighting the performance gap between genders. He said, "Whenever the results come out, the girls are always at the top. They are the ones securing the first, second, and third ranks. And what are our boys doing? They are busy wandering the streets, riding bikes with no purpose, and looking at the girls.” While the message was serious, his delivery made people laugh even as it sparked reflection.

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10) A Provocative Line That Reflected His Unfiltered Style
Before joining the Mahayuti alliance, Ajit Pawar made a pointed remark during a speech, referring to leaders who broke away from their parties. He said, “History shows that whoever breaks a party or leaves it is sent home by the people. Look at what happened to Bhujbal Saheb. Look at Rane -- he lost twice. He lost in Konkan and then in Mumbai. In Mumbai, a woman defeated him. A woman defeated him.” Though criticised for its tone, the blunt remark evoked laughter on stage and reflected Pawar’s provocative speaking style.

In the end, Ajit Pawar will be remembered not only for his political stature and administrative decisions, but also for the unmistakable human touch he brought to public life. His sharp wit, candid remarks, and effortless humour made him stand out in a landscape often dominated by scripted speeches and guarded words. Even when controversy followed, his intent was often seen as honest and unfiltered. These moments of laughter now serve as lasting memories, reminding people that behind the seasoned politician was a leader who believed in speaking his mind, staying grounded, and connecting with people in the most relatable way.