Caught in the Clouds: How Ajit Pawar Chanted “Panduranga” During a Scary Helicopter Ride, Reassured by Fadnavis

Nagpur: A story from Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s past has resurfaced following his tragic death in a plane crash. Recounted by Pawar himself during a public rally, the incident highlights his human side and the moments of fear even seasoned politicians face while traveling.

In 2024, Ajit Pawar, along with Devendra Fadnavis and then-Industries Minister Uday Samant, was traveling by helicopter from Nagpur to Gadchiroli for the foundation-laying ceremony of Surajgarh Steel Private Limited. Initially, the flight was smooth, but as the helicopter entered thick clouds, Pawar became visibly anxious. Surrounded by dense fog, he could see neither the ground nor trees—only clouds in every direction.

Despite Fadnavis calmly conversing beside him, Pawar admitted that he started silently chanting “Panduranga, Panduranga” to keep himself composed. At one point, he reportedly said to Fadnavis, “Look outside! We cannot see anything—not trees, not the ground. We are flying blind in the clouds. Where are we going?” Fadnavis reassured him, “Don’t worry at all. I have been through six such incidents in helicopters and planes. Nothing has ever happened to me, and you will be fine too.”

Hearing Fadnavis’ calm words, Pawar later said he felt a mix of fear and faith: “I thought, ‘Oh God, what is he saying?’ My stomach was already in knots. Since it was a sacred Ekadashi day, I started chanting ‘Panduranga’ quietly. And here was ‘Maharaj’ advising me.” Moments later, Uday Samant pointed out, “Dada, the ground is finally visible!” Pawar recalled laughing as he regained his composure, attributing their safe landing to both Fadnavis’ calm demeanor and perhaps the blessings of elders.

This anecdote, now widely recounted after Pawar’s untimely death, offers a glimpse into the human side of a seasoned political leader—someone capable of courage, faith, and humor even in moments of fear.