On Wednesday, political and business figures gathered at the Delhi residence of NCP–SP leader Sharad Pawar for a private dinner, just days ahead of the veteran leader's 85th birthday. The event at 6, Janpath saw attendees from multiple political parties.
The gathering saw the presence of Congress figures Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who is known for his political disagreements with his uncle, businessman Gautam Adani, and the recently appointed Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. Numerous Members of Parliament were also present, such as TMC's Saugata Roy, BJP's D Purandeswari, and Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu.
Pawar, who has previously served as the Union Minister of Defence and Agriculture and has been the Chief Minister of Maharashtra four times, will turn 85 on December 12.
LEADERS EMPHASIZE PERSONAL FRIENDSHIP OVER POLITICAL MATTERS
Nalin Kohli, a spokesperson for the BJP who was present at the event, characterized the evening as purely non-political. After departing the venue, he mentioned that the gathering was a traditional cultural practice aimed at wishing senior public figures good health and a long life, particularly those recognized for their social contributions. He emphasized that the dinner was completely private and devoid of any political aspect.
Congress leader Pawan Kheda echoed similar views, highlighting the significance of social connections that go beyond political differences. 'Politics should not dominate every aspect. Society flourishes through mutual relationships. Society is not governed by politics; rather, politics is driven by society,' Kheda stated. JJP leader Dushyant Chautala also conveyed his best wishes, saying, 'Warm congratulations to the esteemed Sharad Pawar on reaching 85 years. May God bless him with good health and the strength to keep contributing to national politics.'