The clock struck 8:44 am on January 28, 2026, a moment that would forever change the course of Maharashtra’s political landscape and the heart of Baramati. The news of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s tragic death in a plane crash sent shockwaves across the nation [[8]]. Now, the entire town prepares for a day of profound grief and final respects as the Ajit Pawar funeral is set for January 29, 2026.
Table of Contents
- The Tragic Loss of a Political Stalwart
- Ajit Pawar Funeral: Date, Time, and Venue
- Baramati Pays Tribute: A Town in Mourning
- National Mourning and Expected Dignitaries
- Political Legacy and an Uncertain Future
- Conclusion
- Sources
The Tragic Loss of a Political Stalwart
Ajit Pawar, a towering figure in Maharashtra politics for decades, was known for his sharp political acumen and deep connection to his constituency of Baramati. His sudden and untimely death at the age of 66 has left a massive void not just in his party, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), but in the entire state’s governance structure [[10]]. The circumstances of the plane crash near his hometown have added a layer of disbelief to the overwhelming sense of loss felt by his supporters and colleagues alike.
Ajit Pawar Funeral: Date, Time, and Venue
The final rites for the late Deputy Chief Minister will be conducted with full state honors. The Ajit Pawar funeral is scheduled for Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 11:00 am [[7]]. The chosen venue is the Vidya Pratishthan Ground in Baramati, a location deeply connected to the Pawar family and their legacy of public service and education in the region [[1]]. This ground is expected to host a massive gathering of mourners from all walks of life.
Baramati Pays Tribute: A Town in Mourning
Baramati, the town Ajit Pawar represented for so long, has effectively come to a standstill. In a powerful display of collective grief, businesses have shuttered their doors, and daily life has paused. The streets, usually bustling, are now filled with a somber silence, broken only by the preparations for the state funeral. Local residents have begun lining the routes, waiting for one last glimpse of their leader. This shutdown is not mandated by law but is a spontaneous and heartfelt tribute from a community that saw him as one of their own [INTERNAL_LINK:maharashtra-political-landscape].
National Mourning and Expected Dignitaries
The Government of Maharashtra has announced a three-day period of state mourning [[2]]. The national significance of this event is underscored by the expected attendance of the country’s highest leadership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah are both confirmed to attend the funeral to pay their respects [[3]]. Their presence highlights the immense respect Ajit Pawar commanded across party lines and his pivotal role in national politics. A host of other central and state ministers, chief ministers from various states, and political leaders from across the spectrum are also expected to be in attendance.
Political Legacy and an Uncertain Future
Ajit Pawar’s legacy is complex and influential. He was a key architect of many of Maharashtra’s development policies and was often seen as the de facto number two in the state government. His passing creates a significant power vacuum within the NCP and the ruling coalition in Maharashtra. Questions about succession, both within his party and his family’s political dynasty, are already beginning to surface. The stability of the current state government could be tested in the coming weeks as various factions navigate this new reality. For now, however, politics is set aside as the nation unites in mourning a formidable leader.
Conclusion
The Ajit Pawar funeral on January 29th is more than just a ceremonial event; it is a historic moment of collective grief for Maharashtra and India. As Baramati locks its doors and the nation’s leaders gather in a small town in Pune district, the world will witness the profound impact one man had on his community and his country. His legacy will be debated for years to come, but today, the focus is on a final, respectful farewell.
Sources
- Sunday Guardian – Ajit Pawar Funeral Date, Time & Venue [[2]]
- The Hindu – Ajit Pawar dies in a plane crash; funeral in Baramati [[3]]
- The Hindu – Ajit Pawar plane crash LIVE: Maharashtra Dy CM’s mortal remains… [[7]]
- The Hindu – Ajit Pawar (1959-2026) [[8]]
- Wikipedia – Ajit Pawar [[10]]