Pawar chooses to keep it low-key

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Sunday held low-key celebrations across the state on the 70th birthday of its chief Sharad Pawar.

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Sunday held low-key celebrations across the state on the 70th birthday of its chief Sharad Pawar.

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While Pawar did not celebrate his birthday publicly, NCP cadres organised programmes such as blood donation drives, sports and cultural activities.

“Our main thrust is on social work and programmes are being held in villages, small towns and cities in the state,” said state NCP president, Madhukar Pichad.

Unlike Gopinath Munde, who celebrated his 61st birthday at a grand public ceremony on Sunday, Pawar spent quality time with his family and close friends — a practice he has been following for several years. Even the hoardings and banners congratulating Pawar have been fewer this year.

At Worli, the local unit, guided by state minister Sachin Ahir, organised a sports meet, while the Parel and the Anushakti Nagar unit held a blood donation and medical camp.

The NCP youth wing organised musical and cultural events and biographical books on Pawar were released across the state.

Some cadres went to various orphanages and distributed books and fruits to the children.

They also released books on their leader listing his political and social achievements.