Ajit Pawar 1959-2026: Beyond Politics, A Ray-Ban Fan Who ‘Spotted Dust Behind Sofas’

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who died on January 28, was known not only for his political acumen but also for a disciplined, distinctive style that reflected his personality. From the way he dressed to the way he carried himself, his appearance mirrored the methodical approach he applied to both life and work.

Ajit Pawar was selective about accessories. He often chose thick, dark or gradient sunglasses from well‑known brands like Maybach and Ray‑Ban, as per a Times of India report.

He was also picky about his watches. “I like pens, watches and sunglasses. I wear different types of clothes and accessories. Fortunately, I can afford it,” the NCP chief told the TOI.

One memorable moment was in April 2025, when Ajit Pawar stood out in front of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, sporting black goggles and a white hat. This look was widely shared in the media.

In July 2024, Ajit Pawar surprised everyone with a pink jacket at a public program in Ahmednagar. When a local asked him if pink was his favourite colour, he replied, comparing it to how people wear different saris and notice every detail. The pink jacket instantly became a talking point.

Ajit Pawar lived a disciplined life, even outside politics. From a young age, he stayed away from alcohol and tobacco. He often advised others to do the same. He had warned the late RR Patil about the dangers of chewing tobacco, saying it could cause cancer, TOI reported.

Cleanliness was important to him. Ajit Pawar believed that neatness at home and work came naturally to him. He once said he had these habits since childhood. “Since school, I would keep my books neatly on the shelf. I would fold my clothes properly and keep footwear in its designated spot. I would clean my bicycle regularly,” he said.

Maharashtra Minister Hasan Mushrif recalled that Ajit Pawar noticed even small details. Dust behind sofas or on top of a television set, untidy clothes, or poor design never escaped his attention. “He was very strict about cleanliness. If he visited you and saw dirty clothes lying around or dust, he would insist that it be cleaned,” Mushrif told the TOI.

Pawar also had a keen eye for buildings and would point out flaws in design and structure.

The Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister died on January 28 in a plane crash near Baramati in Pune district. The Learjet 45 aircraft he was travelling in, on a charter flight from Mumbai to Baramati for election-related meetings, crashed while attempting to land at Baramati Airport. The jet veered off the runway, burst into flames, and was destroyed on impact, killing Ajit Pawar and four others on board.