Rivals Kalmadi, Ajit Pawar at Bhimsen gallery opening

Updated on: 10 February,2011 08:10 AM IST |
Vivek Sabnis |

Rarely seen together, leaders agree to be at event after facing criticism for skipping funeral of renowned vocalist

Rarely seen together, leaders agree to be at event after facing criticism for skipping funeral of renowned vocalist

Political archrivals Ajit Pawar and Suresh Kalmadi found themselves in the same boat when they faced criticism for not attending the funeral of Pandit Bhimsen Joshi. Now, as if to make amends, both were eager to confirm their presence at today's inauguration of an art gallery, the Bharat Ratna Pandit Bhimsen Joshi Kala Dalan.

NCP leader Pawar was in Kolhapur at a felicitation function and had argued that his presence was not required at the funeral as his representatives were attending it.

"Pawar is not only the deputy chief minister but also Pune guardian minister, said Milind Deshpande, a close friend of the Joshi family. "It is very irresponsible of him to make such a statement and show reluctance to attend to his duties."

Even Kalmadi was criticised by Mangala Pawar, who lives near the Joshi residence.

"Kalmadi is selfish and he is present only he can get mileage our of something,' she said. "He was in Pune to celebrate the 61st birthday of his partyman Bharat Savant, but gave lame excuses for not being there at the funeral."

After the barrage of criticism, Kalmadi and Pawar, who are rarely seen together in public,u00a0 consented to attending the art gallery inauguration.

Mayor Mohansingh Rajpal said Pawar and Kalmadi had been invited as chief guests. "I have received their confirmation," he said.

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