Pawar, 66, was addressing party workers and residents during a local campaign when he said, in Marathi, that the world is not permanent and that everyone must leave when destiny calls. “We are all here today, but may not be here tomorrow,” he told the gathering, adding that politics should not dominate life beyond elections and that development and economic prosperity must remain the focus. He credited the people’s trust and affection as his greatest strength and inspiration.
The video resurfaced after Pawar was killed in a plane crash near Baramati Airport while traveling to his constituency. The accident also claimed the lives of two pilots, a female crew member, and a security guard. Visuals from the crash site showed the aircraft engulfed in flames, prompting the state government to order a CID inquiry into the incident. Police and State Reserve Police Force personnel have cordoned off the area to prevent tampering as investigations continue.
Pawar’s last rites were performed on Thursday at Vidya Pratishthan in Baramati. On Friday morning, his sons Jai and Parth Pawar reached the venue to collect his ashes. NCP patriarch Sharad Pawar was present during the rites, alongside senior party leaders and supporters.
In the political aftermath of his death, discussions have begun within the Nationalist Congress Party regarding leadership and succession. Sources indicate that Pawar’s wife, Sunetra Pawar—currently a Rajya Sabha MP—may be considered for the post of Deputy Chief Minister. Senior leaders including Praful Patel, Chhagan Bhujbal, Dhananjay Munde, and Sunil Tatkare have reportedly met her, while further consultations with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis are expected.
Separately, renewed speculation has emerged over a possible merger of the NCP factions led by Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar. Close aides have said Ajit Pawar had outlined a roadmap for reunification, with alliance decisions to be finalized after local body elections.
As the investigation into the crash proceeds and political deliberations intensify, Pawar’s final public words—now widely shared—have left a poignant imprint on Maharashtra’s political landscape.
