Devendra Fadnavis: The Journey of Maharashtra's political dynamo
PTC Web Desk: Devendra Fadnavis has created history by taking the oath as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister for the third time on Thursday. This political heavyweight has seen a remarkable journey, characterised by perseverance, strategic acumen, and a commitment to governance. The oath-taking ceremony was held at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan. Fadnavis once again stepped into a role he has long made his own. His ascent to the top of Maharashtra's political ladder is a compelling narrative of ambition shaped by values, challenges, and unwavering determination.
Early Life: Shaped by Ideology
Born on July 22, 1970, in Nagpur, Devendra Fadnavis hails from a Marathi Brahmin family deeply rooted in political and ideological convictions. His father, Gangadhar Rao Fadnavis, was an RSS campaigner and a BJP leader who served as a member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council. From a young age, Devendra Fadnavis was exposed to the ethos of discipline and service championed by the RSS.
A turning point in his childhood came during the Emergency in 1975, declared by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. His father’s imprisonment during this period left an indelible mark on young Devendra, fostering a dislike for authoritarianism. This aversion was so strong that he refused to attend Indira Convent School, choosing instead to study at Saraswati Shishu Mandir, a school associated with the RSS.
Devendra Fadnavis excelled academically and graduated from Dharampeth Junior College. He earned a law degree in 1992, but opted not to pursue a career as a lawyer. Later, he expanded his academic credentials with a postgraduate diploma in business management from the German Foundation for International Development in Berlin, laying a foundation for his future in governance.
Political foundations: From RSS to ABVP
Devendra Fadnavis’s political journey began with the RSS and its student wing, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). After the untimely death of his father in 1987, Fadnavis took on the mantle of responsibility both at home and in his community. With his brother Ashish Fadnavis handling family affairs, Devendra immersed himself in political activities.
In 1992, Fadnavis, at just 22, became a corporator in the Nagpur Municipal Corporation. His work ethic, innovative ideas, and dedication to public service earned him recognition. Five years later, in 1997, he became the youngest mayor in Nagpur’s history. This milestone marked the beginning of his ascent in state politics.
Legislative career: Rising star in BJP
In 1999, Devendra Fadnavis was elected to the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly from Nagpur West. Representing this constituency repeatedly, he established himself as a legislator who combined grassroots connection with a vision for modernisation.
His tenure as an MLA saw him champion various developmental projects and initiatives, particularly in urban planning, technology adoption, and transparent governance. Known for his meticulous preparation and clarity in debates, Fadnavis gained respect across party lines as a model legislator.
Personal life: A power couple
Devendra Fadnavis married Amruta Ranade, a banker, on November 17, 2005. Their union, which began as an arranged marriage, blossomed into a partnership that balanced political responsibilities and personal aspirations. Amruta Fadnavis, who later gained fame as a singer and actress, has often praised her husband’s simplicity and humility. Together, they have a daughter, Divija, and maintain a grounded family life despite the pressures of public roles.
2014: Maharashtra's first BJP CM
The BJP’s decision to field Devendra Fadnavis as its Chief Ministerial candidate in 2014 marked a turning point in his career. At the age of 44, Fadnavis became Maharashtra’s youngest Chief Minister since Sharad Pawar and the state’s first BJP leader to hold the position. Fadnavis’s tenure as CM was characterised by bold reforms, including the implementation of infrastructure projects like the Mumbai Metro and Nagpur-Mumbai Samruddhi Expressway. His administration focused on urban development, investment promotion, and streamlining governance through technology.
Under his leadership, Maharashtra witnessed significant strides in fiscal discipline and economic growth, earning him accolades as a visionary leader.
The 80-Hour CM: A political drama
In 2019, Maharashtra’s political landscape saw unprecedented turmoil. After the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance broke down over power-sharing disputes, Fadnavis briefly returned as Chief Minister in a dramatic turn of events. Partnering with NCP leader Ajit Pawar, Fadnavis formed a government that lasted just 80 hours. Pawar’s return to the NCP left the BJP without a majority, forcing Fadnavis to resign. The Shiv Sena then formed a coalition government with the Congress and NCP, led by Uddhav Thackeray.
Deputy CM: The unexpected role
In June 2022, Devendra Fadnavis played a pivotal role in toppling the Maha Vikas Aghadi government through a rebellion led by Eknath Shinde. Many expected Fadnavis to reclaim the Chief Minister’s chair. However, in a surprising move, he announced that Shinde would lead the government, while he would serve as Deputy CM.
Fadnavis’s political career has not been without challenges. From navigating internal party rivalries to managing coalition dynamics, he has faced numerous hurdles.
Critics have accused Fadnavis of being overly ambitious, but his supporters argue that his ambition is matched by his work ethic and vision. His speeches often quote the metaphor of the sea:
"Don’t build your homes by my shore as my tide ebbs; I am a sea, and I will return."
- PTC NEWS
