Kolhapur Remembers Ajit Pawar: A Legacy Forged in Student Days
The late deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar shared a profound and lasting connection with Kolhapur, a city that served as the backdrop for his formative years during the late 1970s. This period, marked by academic pursuits and personal growth, left an indelible imprint on his character and future political trajectory.
Academic Beginnings and Humble Living
In September 1978, a young Ajit Pawar arrived in Kolhapur to enroll in his first-year Bachelor of Commerce degree at Shri Shahaji Chhatrapati Mahavidyalaya. For approximately two and a half years, he resided in room number one of a modest chawl located near Maratha House in the Panch Bungalow area. His roommate during this time was Arvind Satav, a fellow native of Baramati, fostering a companionship that would endure through the years.
Despite being the nephew of Sharad Pawar, who was already an established and influential figure in Indian politics, Ajit was renowned for his exceptional humility. His long-time friend Madhukar Chavan, a resident of Ambewadi village, vividly recalled, "Even though his uncle was at the peak of his political career, Ajit never flaunted his identity. He remained grounded throughout his life, even after rising to the rank of deputy chief minister."
Discipline, Cleanliness, and Leisure Pursuits
Chavan noted that Pawar was not particularly a bookworm but exhibited remarkable discipline and a strong penchant for cleanliness. "He was very keen on keeping his room spotless. His clothes and his favourite shoes were always kept with military precision in his cupboard," Chavan added, highlighting the meticulous nature that would later define his administrative approach.
During his Kolhapur days, Pawar was a familiar figure in the city, often seen driving his Fiat car, bearing the registration number 9999, or riding his motorcycle. He and his group of friends spent their leisure time immersing themselves in the local culture. They were regular attendees at cinema halls, never missing a release featuring the legendary Amitabh Bachchan.
After college hours, the group would frequently cruise through popular areas like Rajarampuri and Bhawani Mandap on their motorcycles or embark on trips to the historic Panhala Fort, blending youthful exploration with cultural appreciation.
Educational Journey Interrupted and Unwavering Loyalty
Pawar's educational path in Kolhapur followed his early schooling in Deolali and his junior college years in Mumbai. However, his studies were tragically interrupted by the untimely death of his father, compelling him to return to Baramati to shoulder family responsibilities.
Despite his departure from Kolhapur, his loyalty to his college friends remained steadfast and unshaken. When he contested his first Lok Sabha election in 1991, his entire college troupe from Kolhapur travelled to Baramati to campaign vigorously for him, a testament to the deep bonds forged during his student days.
A Void Left at the Alma Mater
The news of Ajit Pawar's passing has created a significant void at his alma mater. College principal R. K. Shanediwan revealed that plans were actively underway for a grand homecoming event. "We were planning to invite him for an alumni meet under the leadership of Kolhapur district bank director Babasaheb Patil-Asurlekar. We had preliminary discussions just a few months ago, but his untimely death means that meeting will now never take place," he stated, underscoring the profound sense of loss felt by the institution and the community.
Ajit Pawar's time in Kolhapur was more than just an academic chapter; it was a period that shaped his humility, discipline, and enduring connections, leaving a legacy that the city continues to cherish and remember with deep respect.
