Praful Patel in the spotlight with new pictorial biography

Lauding senior NCP leader Praful Patel for his ability to cultivate friends across the political spectrum, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis pointed out how the former Union minister had always risen above political differences.

Fadnavis was speaking at the formal launch of 'UDAAN: A graphic glimpse through the life of Praful Patel' on Sunday, where superstar Amitabh Bachchan, Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray, Reliance Industries chief Mukesh Ambani and film director Karan Johar were also present.

Patel was Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and later, the cabinet minister for Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises in the erstwhile Congress-led UPA government.

Fadnavis said Patel was at ease with a cross-section of people, including labourers and farmers, and was rooted despite his achievements. Noting that Patel had created world-class infrastructure at airports during his stint as civil aviation minister, Fadnavis said Patel "nurtured personal warmth despite political differences"?.

Ambani lauded Patel's "power to sustain relationships." "He is always there when you need him," he said, adding that "the best is yet to come."

Bachchan said that a "disarming smile and a somewhat mischevious twinkle in his eyes" was one of Patel's endearing features. Wishing him success in his future endeavours, Bachchan commended Patel for carrying forward his father, Manoharbhai's, legacy and adding to it in a large measure.

Uddhav Thackeray spoke about Patel's love for fitness and said he could easily interact with politicians, heads of state and common farmers.