Devendra Fadnavis is set to take oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra for the third time today at 5:30 PM at Azad Maidan. This marks yet another milestone in a political journey shaped by resilience, strategy, and an unwavering commitment to public service. From his formative years in Nagpur to becoming a pivotal figure in Maharashtra politics, Fadnavis’s story is one of ambition and determination.
A Childhood Influenced by Politics
Born on July 22, 1970, in Nagpur to a Marathi Brahmin family, Devendra Fadnavis grew up in a politically active household. His father, Gangadhar Rao, was a BJP leader and an RSS pracharak who served briefly as a member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council. Fadnavis’s early exposure to politics was deeply influenced by his father’s activism, especially during the Emergency period in 1975. When his father was jailed, a young Fadnavis developed a strong aversion to then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. In protest, he left the Indira Convent School where he was enrolled at the time.
After completing his schooling at Saraswati Shishu Mandir, Fadnavis pursued law and later earned a postgraduate degree in business management from Germany. His academic journey reflects his pursuit of intellectual growth, even though he chose politics over a professional career.
Early Political Career: From Corporator to MLA
Fadnavis’s political career began at a young age, shaped by his association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). At just 17, he lost his father, but with his elder brother managing family responsibilities, Fadnavis devoted himself entirely to politics.
In 1992, he was elected as a corporator in the Nagpur Municipal Corporation. By 1997, he made history by becoming Nagpur’s youngest mayor at the age of 27. Two years later, he won the Nagpur West Assembly seat, marking his entry into state politics. Fadnavis would go on to serve five consecutive terms as an MLA, representing Nagpur with distinction.
A Strategic Mind: Navigating Party Politics
Fadnavis’s rise within the BJP was a mix of strategic acumen and adaptability. Initially mentored by Nitin Gadkari, he later aligned himself with Gopinath Munde when intra-party rivalries surfaced. This calculated shift proved instrumental in elevating Fadnavis’s stature within the BJP.
When the BJP needed a non-Marathi face to lead Maharashtra, Fadnavis emerged as the natural choice. His successes as an election strategist in states like Bihar, Goa, and Kerala bolstered his reputation as a leader who could deliver results.
The Young and Visionary Chief Minister
In 2014, Fadnavis became Maharashtra’s Chief Minister at 44, the second-youngest in the state’s history. His tenure was marked by significant achievements, including infrastructure projects, rural development, and innovative governance practices. Notably, he was the first Chief Minister in 49 years to complete a full five-year term in Maharashtra, reflecting his political resilience and administrative acumen.
Personal Life: A Partnership of Equals
In 2005, Fadnavis married Amruta Ranade, a banker, singer, and actress. Their relationship, which began as an arranged marriage, quickly grew into a partnership built on mutual respect. Amruta has often described her husband as a grounded and sincere individual. Together, they have a daughter, Divija.
The 2019 Political Drama and Resilience
Fadnavis’s second term as Chief Minister in 2019 was short-lived, lasting only 80 hours due to political upheaval involving alliances and defections. However, his now-iconic quote in the Assembly, “I am the sea; I will return,” symbolized his determination to reclaim his position.
In 2022, Fadnavis played a key role in the political realignment that led to Eknath Shinde becoming Chief Minister. While initially reluctant to serve as Deputy Chief Minister, he eventually accepted the role, reportedly at the insistence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This move showcased his loyalty to the party and willingness to prioritize collective goals over personal ambition.
A Legacy in the Making
Fadnavis’s return as Chief Minister for a third term cements his position as one of Maharashtra’s most influential leaders. From his grassroots beginnings to navigating the complexities of coalition politics, his journey is a testament to adaptability, resilience, and vision.
As Fadnavis takes on the mantle once again, all eyes will be on how he steers Maharashtra toward progress while addressing its myriad challenges. His story, marked by triumphs and trials, continues to inspire not just his supporters but also those who aspire to leave a mark in public service.