Nagpur: Devendra Fadnavis’s remarkable journey from a defiant young swayamsevak to Maharashtra’s Chief Minister for the third time showcases his unwavering commitment to leadership and development. At just 54, Fadnavis embodies resilience, political acumen, and the enduring influence of his Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) roots.
Born during the Emergency era, Fadnavis grew up under the shadow of his father’s imprisonment for opposing Indira Gandhi’s government. Rejecting education at a school named after the former Prime Minister, young Fadnavis transferred to Saraswati Vidyalaya, a decision that set the stage for his ideological path. “Devendra was always vocal and showed exceptional leadership qualities, even as a student,” recalls Avinash Sangwai, a senior RSS activist.
Fadnavis’s rise through the ranks was swift. From being Nagpur’s youngest mayor at 27 to becoming Maharashtra’s second Brahmin Chief Minister, his political journey is marked by composure and strategic prowess. His calm demeanor, even during setbacks, has been a hallmark of his career, earning him respect across party lines.
In the recent assembly elections, Fadnavis demonstrated his political mastery. Collaborating with RSS joint general secretary Atul Limaye, he effectively utilized Prime Minister Modi’s slogan “Ek hai to Safe Hai” to galvanize voters. His sharp counter to Islamic cleric Maulana Sajjad Nomani’s controversial remarks further underscored his ability to frame electoral battles as ideological movements, such as a “Dharma Yudh.”
Known for his accessibility and development-focused governance, Fadnavis has championed transformative infrastructure projects like the Mumbai-Nagpur Samruddhi Expressway and Mumbai’s metro expansion. His efforts have cemented his reputation as a leader committed to Maharashtra’s growth.
Despite past challenges, including the collapse of his alliance with Uddhav Thackeray in 2019, Fadnavis has rebounded with resilience. His corruption-free image, rare in state politics, and his decision to focus on Maharashtra rather than national ambitions reflect his dedication.
As Fadnavis takes the oath of office, his journey from an RSS shakha in Nagpur to Maharashtra’s top position symbolizes not just personal triumph but also the evolution of Indian politics. “From a young swayamsevak to Modi’s ‘param mitra,’ Devendra’s rise has been extraordinary,” a party insider remarked.
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