Few knew that Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar once worked behind the scenes at Rajkamal Studios, managing iconic film productions. His early years in cinema shaped skills that later defined his political journey.
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Ajit Pawar Bollywood/Film Industry Connection: Shockwaves hit Maharashtra on Wednesday morning when Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar died in a tragic plane crash in Baramati. The Learjet-45 aircraft, carrying six people, crashed during landing, killing everyone on board. Pawar was 64. While political circles reel from the loss, investigators are still trying to figure out the technical reasons behind the accident.
But behind the politician known to the public, few knew about Ajit Pawar’s fascinating connection to the film world.
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Ajit Pawar was a towering presence in Maharashtra’s political landscape, shaping the state’s power corridors for over four decades. Known for his sharp political acumen and administrative authority, he served as Maharashtra’s longest-serving Deputy Chief Minister, leaving an… pic.twitter.com/7IJ9OrxGRo
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— The Statesman (@TheStatesmanLtd) January 28, 2026
Born on July 22, 1959, in Deolali, Maharashtra, Ajit Pawar came from a family already linked to films. His father Anantrao Pawar worked closely with legendary director V Shantaram, one of India’s most celebrated filmmakers.
Young Ajit grew up surrounded by the creative chaos of Bombay’s film studios and became part of Shantaram’s team at Rajkamal Studios.
Although neither Ajit nor his father ever earned official credits as producers or directors, those who worked with them recall their indispensable role behind the scenes.
Ajit was deeply involved in the technical and administrative aspects of film production.
Ajit’s years at Rajkamal Studios placed him amidst some of the most iconic movies of the era. Films like ‘Dr. Kotnis Ki Amar Kahani’, ‘Do Aankhen Barah Haath’, ‘Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baje’, ‘Navrang’, ‘Duniya Na Mane’, ‘Amar Bhoopali’ thrived in bustling studio atmosphere that Ajit helped manage.
Though he remained behind the camera, those who knew him say his dedication and hard work were vital part of creative environment.
Family stories suggest that everyone expected Ajit to follow in his father’s footsteps and enter the film industry. Yet, politics called louder.
Ajit Pawar’s formal education ended at Maharashtra Board Higher Secondary. But his interest in social work and politics was evident from a young age.
Inspired by his uncle Sharad Pawar, he chose public life over cinema. In 1982, he officially entered politics gradually climbing the ranks to become one of Maharashtra’s most influential leaders.
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