Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis turned 55 on Tuesday, and the occasion saw a shower of greetings from across the political and social spectrum. From national leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to local citizens and party workers, birthday wishes poured in for the senior BJP leader. However, what made the day truly remarkable were the warm tributes and surprising praise from two of his long-standing political rivals: Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) chief Sharad Pawar and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray.
Adding to the significance of the occasion, a commemorative coffee table book titled “Maharashtracha Mahanayak” (The Great Leader of Maharashtra) was unveiled, spearheaded by Maharashtra's Disaster Management Minister Girish Mahajan. The book, which chronicles Fadnavis’ political journey and achievements, features special contributions from both Pawar and Thackeray—unusual and notable for their candid admiration.
Sharad Pawar’s Candid Praise: “A Leader With Boundless Energy”
In his essay, Sharad Pawar drew parallels between Fadnavis’ energy and his own early days as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister. He remarked, “Watching Devendra’s energetic and tireless style of functioning reminds me of my own initial years in politics. He doesn’t seem to tire, and it often makes me wonder where this energy comes from.”
Pawar noted that although Fadnavis was born into a politically aware family, the early demise of his father posed a significant emotional and professional challenge. “Recovering from that personal tragedy and rising with such tenacity is commendable. His success is purely his own,” he wrote.
Highlighting Fadnavis’ sharp intellect and legal acumen, Pawar described him as a “spontaneous speaker and a diplomatic politician who has left his mark even when out of power.” As state BJP president, Fadnavis’ leadership was “noteworthy” and eventually earned him the chief minister’s chair at a remarkably young age.
Pawar also touched upon the changing nature of politics. “Today’s political landscape is no longer about just ideological debates during elections. The constant back-and-forth and polarisation are draining our energy and taking attention away from policy and governance.”
Invoking Kautilya’s political philosophy, Pawar stressed that a true leader works for public good beyond political survival. “Fadnavis has proven his capability. I hope he crosses even more significant milestones beyond state politics, contributing to the nation. May he continue to preserve Maharashtra’s progressive, scientific, and cultural identity.”
Uddhav Thackeray: “A Sharp, Capable Politician Destined for Bigger Roles”
Uddhav Thackeray too offered sincere wishes to his former political ally-turned-opponent. Recounting their time together in government between 2014 and 2019, Thackeray said, “I saw up close how deeply he studied issues, how driven he was to resolve problems, and how passionately he worked for the state.”
Calling Fadnavis “intelligent and sincere,” Thackeray acknowledged his early start in politics. “He entered the Nagpur Municipal Corporation at 22 and became the youngest Mayor of Nagpur at 27—an early sign of leadership and grit.”
Thackeray also praised Fadnavis’ ability to simplify complex issues. “His book on the state budget presented economic ideas in a language the common man could understand. His efforts have always centred around the people—be it slum dwellers, workers, or small communities.”
Reflecting on their shared governance, Thackeray said Fadnavis supported several cultural initiatives and policy moves to promote Marathi cinema and theatre. “Despite political differences, I see in him a politician who faces challenges with diplomacy and learning. His political career has national potential,” he added, noting that Fadnavis is likely to be entrusted with major responsibilities at the Centre in the future.
