Narayan Rane a Towering Leader and Guiding Light: CM Devendra Fadnavis

Sindhudurg, April 2026 : Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis hailed former Chief Minister and Member of Parliament Narayan Rane as a dynamic leader and a guiding force in his political journey, speaking at the grand ceremony marking the beginning of Rane’s ‘Amrit Mahotsavi’ (75th year) celebrations in Kankavli.

Recalling his early days in politics, Fadnavis said that Rane had played a pivotal role in shaping his parliamentary career. “My journey in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly began under his leadership. After my very first speech, he sent me a note saying ‘Well spoken,’ which encouraged me immensely,” the Chief Minister said. He also credited Rane for inspiring his understanding of budget analysis, noting that Rane’s speeches on the state budget were as insightful as those of an economist.

The event was attended by several prominent leaders, including Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Guardian Minister Nitesh Rane, Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar, Industries Minister Uday Samant, MPs Sunil Tatkare and others.

On the occasion, a coffee table book titled “Toofan,” based on Narayan Rane’s life journey, was released by the Chief Minister and other dignitaries.

Praising Rane’s personality, Fadnavis described him as a generous and disciplined individual who commands immense respect across Maharashtra. He highlighted Rane’s contributions to development in Sindhudurg, including projects such as a medical college and a gaushala, reflecting his commitment to quality and progress. He also acknowledged the support of Rane’s family, especially his wife Neelam Rane, and sons Nilesh and Nitesh Rane, for carrying forward his legacy.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari lauded Rane’s resilience, stating that despite facing numerous ups and downs in his political career, he never gave up and consistently overcame challenges with determination. He added that Rane remains an exemplary opposition leader, whose speeches in the Assembly serve as valuable lessons for new legislators.

Industries Minister Uday Samant expressed emotional gratitude, stating that people in the Konkan region regard Rane as a senior member of their family. He noted that Rane’s leadership has been instrumental in guiding many political careers, including his own.

MP Sunil Tatkare described Rane’s journey—from a grassroots-level party worker to Chief Minister and Union Minister—as a remarkable example of determination and achievement. He credited Rane’s leadership for bringing significant development to Sindhudurg district, giving it a new identity.

MLA Ravindra Chavan highlighted Rane’s role in empowering party workers and providing them with direction and confidence through his leadership.

Addressing the gathering, Narayan Rane expressed heartfelt gratitude for the honour. He said that life is not merely a journey of success and failure, but a continuous pursuit of sincere efforts. Emphasising perseverance, he stated that he achieved everything in politics through hard work and determination, without relying on external support. Despite facing numerous challenges, he never gave up and always rose with renewed energy.

Rane also said that the ideals of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj have been a constant source of inspiration in his life, guiding him to uphold values such as humanity, duty, and self-respect. He urged people to work honestly for the welfare of society, expressing confidence that success follows those who remain committed to public good.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Guardian Minister Nitesh Rane, with dignitaries and supporters celebrating the legacy of a leader widely regarded as a people’s leader.