The photographs, taken at Nana Patekar’s farmhouse in the Donje area near Pune, show Pawar during what Malhar described as informal, private visits. According to the post, Pawar would often visit the farmhouse for lunch, spending time in quiet conversation with the family away from public attention. Until now, these moments had remained outside the public eye.
In an emotional note accompanying the pictures, Malhar Patekar described Pawar’s death as a deeply personal loss. He wrote that Pawar was “like family” to him and said the memories shared with the late leader would remain irreplaceable. “This loss cannot be compensated,” Malhar noted, reflecting the close personal ties that extended beyond political or professional associations.
Ajit Pawar, a senior leader known for his influential role in Maharashtra politics, served multiple terms as Deputy Chief Minister and was regarded as a key strategist in state governance. His sudden death on Wednesday has prompted tributes from across the political spectrum, as well as from cultural figures who knew him personally.
The relationship between Pawar and Nana Patekar was marked by mutual respect and discretion. The actor had on several occasions publicly praised Pawar’s working style, noting that he preferred action over publicity and carried out responsibilities without seeking attention. Those remarks have resurfaced following the circulation of the photographs, reinforcing perceptions of Pawar as a leader who maintained strong personal relationships outside the political arena.
People familiar with the two families said Pawar’s visits to the Donje farmhouse were frequent and informal, reflecting a bond built over years. The setting, far from Mumbai’s political and cinematic centres, allowed for candid interactions and unguarded conversations.
As Maharashtra mourns Ajit Pawar, the images shared by Malhar Patekar have resonated widely, offering a softer, human portrait of a leader often seen through the lens of power politics. They also underscore how Pawar’s influence extended into personal spheres, leaving behind relationships that now grieve his absence as keenly as the public does.
