Beloved ex-minister Suresh Kalmadi’s life of service ends.
He served India as Railways minister and led Indian sports, remembered for a long, complex public life journey.
Senior Congress leader and former Union Minister Suresh Kalmadi passed away in Pune early on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, following a prolonged illness, according to family sources. He was 81. His death marks the end of a long and often eventful public life that spanned politics, sports administration and decades of national attention.
Kalmadi was a familiar figure in Indian public life, particularly during the 1990s and early 2000s. He served as Union Minister of State for Railways, a role in which he was closely associated with infrastructure development and parliamentary affairs. Known for his articulate presence and organisational skills, he was regarded as a seasoned politician within the Congress party.
Beyond politics, Kalmadi also left a significant imprint on Indian sports administration. He served as president of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), a position that placed him at the centre of the country’s sporting ecosystem. During his tenure, Indian sport saw major international engagements and preparations for global events, bringing both recognition and scrutiny.
Born and raised in Pune, Kalmadi maintained a strong connection with the city throughout his life. He represented Pune in Parliament multiple times, and his political career was deeply intertwined with the region’s civic and cultural life. Supporters often described him as approachable and deeply invested in constituency work, while critics viewed his career as emblematic of the complexities of Indian politics.
In his later years, Kalmadi largely withdrew from active public life due to health issues. Family members said he had been unwell for some time and was under medical care before his passing. His death has prompted condolences from political leaders across party lines, many acknowledging his long service to the nation.
For admirers, Suresh Kalmadi will be remembered as a leader who navigated the demanding worlds of politics and sports with influence and ambition. For others, his career serves as a reminder of the highs and lows that often accompany public service. As Pune prepares to bid farewell, his passing closes a significant chapter in the city’s political history.