Sunetra Pawar, fondly called ‘vahini’ in Baramati, has made history as Maharashtra’s first woman Deputy Chief Minister following the sudden demise of her husband, Ajit Pawar. Known for her soft-spoken nature, Sunetra will now lead the faction-ridden NCP in a crucial phase for Maharashtra politics.
Born in Osmanabad (now Dharashiv) in 1963, Sunetra hails from a Maratha family with strong political roots. Her father, Bajirao Patil, and brother, Padamsinh Bajirao Patil, were prominent political figures, with Padamsinh being a founding member of the NCP. Despite this background, Sunetra remained distant from politics for most of her life.
She completed her Bachelor’s in Commerce from SB Arts and Commerce College in Aurangabad in 1983. Two years later, she met Ajit Pawar through her brother and married him in 1985. For decades, she maintained a low profile, known to the public as the supportive ‘vahini’ to the people of Baramati.
Her political journey began unexpectedly at the age of 61, contesting the Lok Sabha elections unsuccessfully. Soon after, she entered the Rajya Sabha and, following her husband’s untimely death, assumed the role of Deputy CM. Sunetra Pawar now faces the challenge of navigating Maharashtra’s complex political landscape, balancing public expectations while leading the NCP during a critical period.
Her rise reflects a familiar pattern in Indian politics, where spouses of prominent leaders step into leadership roles amid unforeseen circumstances, now marking a new chapter in Maharashtra’s governance.
