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Ajit Pawar plane crash: Riteish Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Anupam Kher, Shilpa Shetty, Madhur Bhandarkar, Shatrughan Sinha condole Maharashtra Deputy CM's tragic demise
ETimes | January 28, 2026 8:39 PM CST

On Wednesday, January 28, 2026, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar died in a tragic accident. The seasoned politician and four others were killed in a charter aircraft crash while attempting to land in the Baramati area of Pune district. The news triggered an outpouring of grief from the Indian film industry. Several Bollywood stars and celebrities took to social media to mourn the loss of "Ajit Dada." Riteish Deshmukh , Sanjay Dutt , Madhur Bhandarkar , Ajay Devgn, veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha condoled over the politician's untimely demise.

Riteish DeshmukhTaking to his Instagram Stories, the 'Bigg Boss Marathi' Season 6 host and actor shared, "Deeply shocked and terribly heartbroken to learn that we have lost Ajit Dada in a tragic accident. One of Maharashtra's most dynamic leaders, he had zero tolerance for non-performance and constantly pushed and inspired those around him to excel. He never minced his words, his wit was unmatched, and he was deeply loved across the state. His untimely demise leaves behind a huge loss and an irreplaceable void. I have had the pleasure of interacting with him numerous times, will always remember for the kindness he showered upon me. My deepest condolences to the Pawar family, his loved ones, and millions of supporters."



Sanjay DuttThe 'Dhurandhar' actor too took to his Instagram Stories to post a condolence message for the politician. Dutt shared, "Shocked and saddened by this tragic loss. He was one of the most dynamic leaders, leaving behind a lasting impact. My deepest condolences to the family and everyone affected. Prayers for strength and peace. Om Shanti"



Shilpa Shetty The 'Dhadkan' actress also took to her Instagram Stories to pay a tribute, "Heartfelt condolences to the Pawar family. Rest in power, Ajit dada. Lost a dynamic daring leader. Om Shanti"



Anupam KherThe 'Tanvi The Great' actor took to X (formerly Twitter) to pay his condolences. Kher wrote, "Deeply shocked and Saddened by the tragic passing of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar dada. Whenever I met him he was very gentle and kind! My thoughts are with his family. Om Shanti!"

Madhur BhandarkarThe ace filmmaker too took to X (Twitter) to condole. Bhandarkar wrote, "Deeply shocked and saddened by the untimely demise of Ajit Pawar ji . A towering figure in state politics, his loss is irreparable. Thoughts are with Sunetra ji , Parth, Jay, & the entire Pawar family members during this incredibly difficult time. Strength to them. #OmShanti"



Shatrughan SinhaThe veteran actor too took to the micro-blogging site, X (previously Twitter) to express his condolences. Sinha wrote, "Deeply shocked and grief-stricken by the untimely demise of Maharashtra Deputy CM @AjitPawarSpeaks in a plane crash. He was an iconic leader of Maharashtra—most admired, loved, and talked about—a son of the soil and pride of Baramati. He has left behind a huge void in politics, especially regarding his contributions and unwavering dedication towards Maharashtra and India. Prayers of strength and heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and supporters in their hour of grief. Shanti."

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has declared a three-day period of state mourning to honor the late NCP leader. Flags will fly at half-mast across the state as Maharashtra bids farewell to the longest-serving Deputy Chief Minister in its history.


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