Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister and a senior NCP leader, died tragically on January 28, 2026, in a plane crash near Baramati. His sudden death brought the Ajit Pawar family, known for its deep political roots in Maharashtra, into national focus amid widespread grief and political mourning.
As condolences poured in, public interest grew around the Ajit Pawar family and extended relatives. This article takes a detailed look at the Ajit Pawar family, exploring its structure, emotional response to the tragedy, and enduring role in Maharashtra’s political narrative.
Ajit Pawar’s Immediate Family
Ajit Pawar was survived by his wife, Sunetra Pawar, and their two sons, Parth Pawar and Jay Pawar. The family often appeared together during election campaigns and key political events.
Sunetra Pawar was seen as a quiet but strong presence in Ajit Pawar’s political life. She frequently accompanied him at rallies and remained actively involved in constituency outreach.
Wife Sunetra Pawar
Sunetra Pawar stayed largely away from politics but was influential within family and party circles. After the crash, she was among the first family members to reach Baramati, visibly devastated by the loss.
Her public appearances have always reflected dignity and restraint, even during politically turbulent times. Leaders across parties personally conveyed condolences to her and the family.
Sons Parth Pawar and Jay Pawar
Parth Pawar, the elder son, entered active politics and contested the Lok Sabha elections but lost by a significant margin. Despite the defeat, he remained involved in public life and party activities.
Jay Pawar, the younger son, has maintained a low public profile so far. Political observers often describe him as soft-spoken, with speculation about a future political role.
| Family Member | Name | Public Role | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wife | Sunetra Pawar | Political supporter | Regularly attended rallies and events |
| Elder Son | Parth Pawar | Politician | Contested elections, faced defeat |
| Younger Son | Jay Pawar | Emerging figure | Maintains low public profile |
Extended Pawar Family and Political Lineage
Ajit Pawar belonged to one of Maharashtra’s most influential political families. His uncle, Sharad Pawar, is the founder of the Nationalist Congress Party and a veteran national leader.
Sharad Pawar mentored Ajit Pawar from the early 1980s and shaped his political journey. Despite later political differences, the family bond remained visible during personal moments.
Cousin Supriya Sule and Other Relatives
Ajit Pawar’s cousin, Supriya Sule, is a sitting Member of Parliament and a prominent face of the Pawar family. She rushed to Baramati immediately after the crash and was seen emotionally overwhelmed.
Other family members include elder brother Srinivas Pawar, a businessman, and sister Vijaya Patil. Ajit Pawar’s parents were Anantrao Pawar, who died early in his life, and Ashatai Pawar.
| Relation | Name | Position or Role |
|---|---|---|
| Uncle | Sharad Pawar | NCP founder, senior leader |
| Cousin | Supriya Sule | Lok Sabha MP |
| Brother | Srinivas Pawar | Businessman |
| Sister | Vijaya Patil | Family member |
The Baramati Plane Crash
The Learjet 45 carrying Ajit Pawar crashed during landing at Baramati airfield around 8:18 AM IST. There was no Mayday call, and initial reports suggest visibility issues during the final approach.
All five people onboard, including two pilots and two staff members, died in the crash. The aircraft caught fire after impact, prompting a DGCA investigation.
Family’s Reaction After the Crash
Sunetra Pawar, Parth Pawar, Jay Pawar, and Supriya Sule were seen at Baramati Medical College soon after the incident. The family is in deep shock and grief, struggling to come to terms with the loss.
Party leaders stated that the family was inconsolable and requested privacy. Security was heightened around Baramati to manage crowds and political visitors.
Political Tributes and Support
NCP leader Praful Patel said the family was “still in shock” and struggling to process the tragedy. He added that prayers were ongoing for strength during this difficult time.
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Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis called Ajit Pawar’s death an “unprecedented loss” to the state. Deputy CM Eknath Shinde described him as an elder brother and a guiding force.
Early Life and Family Responsibility
Ajit Pawar was born on July 22, 1959, in Deolali Pravara, Maharashtra. After the early death of his father, he dropped out of college to support his family financially.
This sense of responsibility shaped his political discipline and work ethic. Under Sharad Pawar’s guidance, he steadily rose through the ranks of Maharashtra politics.
Family Amid Political Changes
Ajit Pawar played a key role in the 2023 NCP split and later aligned with the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance. Despite political realignments, family members were often seen together at private events.
Reports from 2025 also highlighted Pawar family gatherings during reconciliation talks within the party. These moments underscored the family-first approach during personal crises.
Legacy of the Pawar Family
The Ajit Pawar family represents a blend of political ambition, public service, and personal sacrifice. Their influence on Maharashtra politics spans decades and multiple generations.
Even after Ajit Pawar’s death, the family remains central to political discussions in the state. Their next steps will likely shape Maharashtra’s political narrative in the years ahead.