Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde marks 60th birthday by visiting his mentor Anand Dighe's office

CM Eknath Shinde. File Pic

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde marked his 60th birthday on Friday by paying tributes to his mentor and late Shiv Sena leader Anand Dighe in Thane, the PTI reported.

CM Shinde visited 'Anand Ashram', from where Anand Dighe operated, and offered floral tributes to his photo. He was accompanied by local Shiv Sena leaders Naresh Mhaske and Meenakshi Shinde, according to the PTI.

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The chief minister later distributed blankets to disabled persons, cricket kits and school bags to children and sanction letters under the PM Mudra loan and CM Mudra loan schemes at a program in the city.

A cake weighing 60 kg, sporting a replica of Mantralaya, the administrative headquarters of the state government, was presented to CM Shinde, as per the PTI.

His followers also organised various programs including cricket matches and health camps in the city on the occasion. Huge banners and hoardings greeting him dotted the city.

Born in western Maharashtra's Satara district, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde started his political career as a Shiv Sena worker in Thane city. He became Maharashtra chief minister with the BJP's support in June 2022 after rebelling against Uddhav Thackeray's leadership and splitting the Sena.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended his birthday wishes to Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

Taking to X, PM Modi said, "Birthday wishes to the dynamic and industrious Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Eknath Shinde Ji. He has made a mark for his grassroots level connect and hardworking nature. He is working to take the state to new heights. Praying for his long and healthy life."

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also wished Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde on his birthday. "Happy Birthday to Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Eknath Shinde. The dedicated spirit with which you are working to take Maharashtra to new heights of development and public welfare under the guidance of PM Modi is highly commendable. I pray to God for your long and healthy life," Amit Shah said in a post on X.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also wished Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde on his birthday.

"Heartiest birthday greetings to Hon. Chief Minister of Maharashtra, ji! Wishing you a long life and good health!", the Deputy CM wrote in a X post.

(with PTI inputs)