Baba Siddique, a well-known politician and former Maharashtra minister, was tragically shot dead in Mumbai.

He was a leader of Ajit Pawar’s faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and had a rich political career.

His death shocked the political world, as well as his admirers in the Bollywood industry, as Siddique had a close association with many celebrities.

The tragic incident occurred when three bullets were fired at Siddique outside his son Zeeshan Siddique’s office in Bandra (East).

Despite being rushed to Lilavati Hospital, he could not survive the attack.

Siddique had been receiving threats and was under ‘Y’ category security, but this couldn’t prevent the fatal assault.

Political Journey of Baba Siddique

Baba Siddique’s journey in politics began at a very young age. Born in Bihar, he moved to Mumbai and joined the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), the student wing of the Congress party, during his teenage years.

His political ambition and charisma helped him quickly rise through the ranks, leading to his election as a Municipal Corporator in the Mumbai Municipal Corporation.

Siddique’s leadership abilities were soon recognized, and he was elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the Vandre West Vidhan Sabha Constituency three consecutive times — in 1999, 2004, and 2009.

He played significant roles in Maharashtra’s governance, serving as a Minister of State for Food & Civil Supplies, Labour, and FDA during his tenure.

The Shift from Congress to NCP

Baba Siddique’s departure from the Congress party earlier this year was a major political event. After spending decades with the grand old party, he switched to Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction.

Reflecting on his decision, Siddique stated that his position in Congress had become unimportant, comparing himself to “curry leaves used to enhance the taste of food” but discarded afterward.

His exit from the Congress was seen as a crucial move, especially as his son, Zeeshan Siddique, was an active Congress MLA representing the Bandra (East) constituency.

However, Zeeshan was expelled from the party in August this year due to alleged anti-party activities.

The father-son duo made headlines frequently as they transitioned into the NCP, a party that Baba Siddique hoped would give him more political relevance.

A Political Icon with Bollywood Connections

Although primarily a politician, Baba Siddique had a unique presence in Bollywood, known for hosting extravagant Iftar parties that attracted many stars, including Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan.

These parties became famous not just for the glitz and glamour but also for their role in mending relationships in the industry.

One of the most notable moments was in 2013, when Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan ended their long-standing feud at one of Siddique’s Iftar parties.

The two superstars, who had been avoiding each other after a heated argument in 2008, reconciled with a hug at the event.

The Assassination and Threats

The circumstances surrounding Baba Siddique’s death remain under investigation. The NCP leader was shot by assailants outside his son’s office in the Nirmal Nagar area of Bandra (East).

According to reports, three to four people were involved in the attack, firing two to three rounds at him.

Despite being under ‘Y’ category security due to recent death threats, Siddique couldn’t escape the attack.

His murder shocked both the political and entertainment communities, with celebrities like Salman Khan, Shilpa Shetty, Raj Kundra, and others rushing to Lilavati Hospital upon hearing the news.

The investigation is still ongoing, but two individuals have already been detained in connection with the murder.

The motives behind the attack are unclear, though the police are considering various angles, including political rivalry.

The Impact of Baba Siddique’s Death

Baba Siddique’s untimely death has left a void in Mumbai’s political scene. His ability to explore both the political and entertainment worlds set him apart from other politicians.

Known as the “Bandra Boy,” Siddique’s influence extended beyond politics, making him a beloved figure among the city’s elite.

His legacy will be remembered for his work in the Mumbai Municipal Corporation, his tenure as an MLA, and his role as a State Minister.

However, it was his personal touch, especially his relationship with Bollywood’s stars, that left a lasting mark on people.

From mending relationships in Bollywood to hosting the grandest Iftar parties, Siddique had a charm that made him well-respected in diverse circles.