In a poignant moment that touched hearts across Maharashtra, Bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh opened up about his late father, former Maharashtra chief minister Vilasrao Deshmukh, during a function in Latur. A video capturing Riteish’s emotional speech, where tears welled up in his eyes, circulated widely on social media, underscoring the enduring legacy of the respected leader.
Reflecting on the twelve years since his father’s passing, Riteish Deshmukh expressed the enduring impact of Vilasrao Deshmukh’s presence in their lives. “Tough 12 years have passed since Saheb left us. Occasionally, the pain surfaces. He always used to shine, and even now, he shines. This shine never fades,” Riteish shared, his voice filled with emotion. He acknowledged the strength his father instilled in them, inspiring them to stand tall and shoulder their responsibilities.
In a heartfelt moment, Riteish expressed gratitude to his uncle, Dilip Deshmukh, for his unwavering support. “I have never told this to my uncle, but today I want to tell him in front of all that I love him very much,” Riteish confessed, highlighting the profound bond shared between them.
Amidst the emotional tributes, Riteish Deshmukh also addressed his brother and Congress MLA, Amit Deshmukh, urging him to make a decisive choice amidst swirling speculations about his political future. “Time has come for you to take a decision… Latur has many expectations from you, but Maharashtra too has many expectations,” Riteish conveyed to his brother, emphasizing the weight of the moment.
The event, attended by dignitaries including President of Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee Nana Patole and former chief minister Prithviraj Chavan, underscored the enduring influence of Vilasrao Deshmukh’s legacy. Born in Latur on May 26, 1945, Vilasrao Deshmukh served as Maharashtra’s chief minister twice and held key ministerial positions in the UPA government. His untimely demise on August 14, 2012, left a void in Maharashtra’s political landscape, but his memory continues to inspire generations.
As Riteish Deshmukh’s heartfelt tribute resonated with the audience, it served as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of familial bonds and the indelible mark left by visionary leaders like Vilasrao Deshmukh on the fabric of society.
