The political journey of Devendra Fadnavis, who is all set to assume the mantle of Maharashtras Chief Minister for the third time, is nothing short of cinematic. Trained as a lawyer and deeply rooted in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Fadnavis has risen through the ranks with his blend of strategic acumen and grassroots connect, making him one of the most prominent faces of the BJP in the state.

A Journey Rooted in Determination

Born in Nagpur, the ideological headquarters of the RSS, Fadnavis exhibited political flair early on. His refusal to continue at Indira Conventa school named after the then Prime Minister who had imprisoned his father, Gangadhar Fadnavis, during Emergencywas a defining moment in his youth. This led him to Saraswati Vidyalaya, setting the stage for his ideological and political grooming.

At just 22, Fadnavis became a corporator in Nagpur, and by 27, he was the citys youngest mayor. These early victories foreshadowed his rapid ascent in Maharashtra politics. His six consecutive wins from Nagpur Southwest cemented his reputation as a leader with deep voter trust.

Fadnaviss first term as Chief Minister in 2014 was marked by ambitious infrastructure projects such as the Mumbai-Nagpur Samruddhi Mahamarg and metro expansions, alongside tackling contentious issues like the Maratha reservation. His governance style, characterized by approachability and decisiveness, earned him both accolades and criticism.

However, his tenure wasnt without turbulence. The Maratha agitation, demanding community reservations, posed a formidable challenge. Fadnaviss government provisioned a quota, but the Supreme Courts eventual rejection kept the issue alive, testing his political mettle.

A Political Roller Coaster

The2019 Maharashtra Assemblyelections brought new twists. Despite the BJP emerging as the largest party, its alliance with the Shiv Sena fractured, leading to Uddhav Thackerays unlikely coalition government with the NCP and Congress. In a dramatic turn, Fadnaviss second term as Chief Ministerformed with a breakaway NCP faction led by Ajit Pawarcollapsed within 70 hours.

His political resilience, however, remained undeterred. Serving as Leader of the Opposition, Fadnavis meticulously planned his comeback. The June 2022 political earthquake, which sawEknath Shindes rebellion against Thackeray, bore Fadnaviss strategic imprint. Though initially sidelined as Deputy Chief Minister in the Shinde-led government, Fadnavis worked relentlessly to consolidate his influence within the BJP.

The 2024 Assembly elections marked a turning point. Under Fadnaviss leadership, the BJP-led Mahayuti coalition, comprising the Shiv Sena and NCP factions, swept to a commanding victory with 230 seats in the 288-member assembly. His meticulous planning, welfare schemes, and high-pitched campaigns paid off, countering the formidable Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance.

The Political Landscape Ahead

The Mahayutis landslide win underscores the BJPs dominance, but question remained about the Chief Ministers post. While Fadnavis is set to take oath, the coalition dynamicsespecially with Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar as key alliescomplicate the situation. Fadnavis, however, remains confident, emphasizing a united front within the alliance.

The challenges ahead are manifold. The Maratha reservation demand continues to simmer, potentially reigniting protests. With local body elections, including the prestigious Mumbai contest, on the horizon, Fadnavis must navigate these complexities while solidifying Mahayutis grassroot presence.