Pune:The tragic death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash has left the entire Pawar family shattered. While the last rites have been performed, grief continues to weigh heavily on Baramati — the political and emotional heart of the Pawar family.
Amid this moment of deep sorrow, one image touched millions across social media: senior NCP leader Supriya Sule and Ajit Pawar’s wife Sunetra Pawar breaking down in tears as they embraced an elderly man upon reaching Baramati. The visuals were silent, yet powerful — capturing loss, pain, and a bond beyond blood.
The man who stood firmly beside the grieving family is Vitthal Seth Maniyar — a name not related by blood, but inseparably woven into the Pawar family’s life for more than six decades.
A Pillar in the Family’s Darkest Hour
When Supriya Sule arrived in Baramati after the tragedy, she was visibly overwhelmed. Earlier, she had posted on her WhatsApp status, “Everything is over,” later changing it to “Heartbreaking beyond words.” But it was at Baramati where emotions finally gave way.
As she saw Vitthal Maniyar, she embraced him and broke down uncontrollably. Sunetra Pawar, equally devastated, found support in his presence as he tried to console her during the most painful moment of her life.
Since then, the nation has been asking — who is this man who commands such emotional closeness with the Pawar family?
A Friendship That Began in College
Vitthal Seth Maniyar is among the closest confidants of veteran leader Sharad Pawar. A businessman by profession, Maniyar’s friendship with Pawar dates back to their college days at Pune’s prestigious Brihan Maharashtra College of Commerce (BMCC).
In an old interview, Maniyar once revealed a lesser-known chapter of their relationship.
“I had contested a student election against Sharad Pawar and lost,” he said. “But that defeat gave me a lifelong friend.”
What began as political rivalry in youth transformed into one of Maharashtra’s most enduring friendships — built on trust, loyalty and mutual respect.
More Than a Friend, Family by Choice
Though he never shared a blood relationship with the Pawars, Vitthal Maniyar is regarded as family in every sense. He remained closely associated with Ajit Pawar throughout his political journey and was among those who understood his ambitions, struggles and decisions most deeply.
Despite spending over six decades at the centre of Maharashtra’s political power corridors, Maniyar never contested an election nor sought any government position. Instead, he chose to remain a silent force — a friend, philosopher and guide.
Trustee of Vidya Pratishthan
His closeness to the Pawar family is also reflected institutionally. Vitthal Maniyar is a trustee of Vidya Pratishthan, the prestigious educational institution in Baramati, where Sharad Pawar serves as President. Other trustees include Supriya Sule, Sunetra Pawar and Yugendra Pawar.
It was on the grounds of the same institution that Ajit Pawar was given his final farewell — a moment that symbolically reflected Maniyar’s lifelong association with the family.
A Quiet Influence in Turbulent Times
As the Pawar family navigates grief, uncertainty and questions surrounding political succession, Vitthal Maniyar’s role is once again being viewed as crucial. Known for his discretion and wisdom, he has often acted as a bridge during difficult phases within the family and the party.
In a political world driven by ambition and power, Maniyar represents something rare — unwavering loyalty without expectation.
In Baramati today, he is not just an elderly man seen in a viral video.
He is a living chapter of the Pawar family’s history — standing tall in silence, when words fail.
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