Pune: Eknath Shinde Clears Rs 32 Lakh Debt of Late Shirish Maharaj More’s Family

Pune, 10th February 2025: The tragic suicide of Shirish Maharaj More due to financial distress has left his family and the Warkari community in deep sorrow. In a significant gesture, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has stepped forward to ease the financial burden on the Maharaj’s grieving family. Shinde has provided financial assistance of ₹32 lakh, the amount of debt Maharaj had mentioned in his suicide note. MLA Vijay Shivtare visited the bereaved family and handed over the financial aid sent by Shinde.

On February 5, Shirish Maharaj More, an 11th-generation descendant of Sant Tukaram Maharaj, was found dead at his residence in Dehu. He hanged himself, citing financial stress as the primary reason. His sudden demise has caused widespread grief, particularly within the Warkari community, where he was known for his selfless service in delivering free kirtan performances.

Upon learning of the tragedy, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde expressed his condolences and ensured that Maharaj’s debt burden was cleared. The move comes as a relief to his family, who are still struggling to come to terms with the irreparable loss.

Why Did Shirish Maharaj More Take the Extreme Step?
Shirish Maharaj had been struggling with financial difficulties for a long time. His suicide note revealed that he was burdened with a ₹32 lakh debt, which he found impossible to repay. Despite his efforts to improve his financial situation, mounting loans pushed him into severe distress.

Breakdown of His Financial Crisis:

Business Failure During COVID-19: Before the pandemic, Maharaj started a paper bag manufacturing and printing business. However, due to the lockdown, he suffered heavy financial losses, leading to his first major setback.

Entry into the Hotel Industry: Two and a half years ago, he purchased a franchise of Naadbramha Idli and opened a restaurant in Pimpri-Chinchwad. While this business is still operational, it added to his financial liabilities.

House Construction Costs: Recently, he built a single-story house, which incurred significant expenses.

Car Loan: He also purchased a four-wheeler, further increasing his debt.

A Loss That Shook the Warkari Community
Before ending his life, Shirish Maharaj More wrote that all debts should be cleared and ensured that no injustice was done to anyone. However, his family believes that misleading information is being spread regarding the exact reasons behind his suicide.

The Warkari community, deeply affected by his demise, believes that had Shirish Maharaj sought financial help, the entire state of Maharashtra would have come forward to support him.

Meanwhile, the Dehu Road Police Station, under Pimpri Chinchwad police, has launched a detailed investigation based on the suicide note left behind by Maharaj.