India, Jan. 7 -- Former Pune MP Suresh Kalmadi played a central role in several initiatives that pushed the city into the national and international spotlight, particularly in sports and cultural events. Leaders across parties recalled his organisational abilities and long public career.

Kalmadi was associated with the launch of events such as Pune International Marathon, Pune Festival and Pune International Film Festival, which over the years became recurring fixtures in the city's public and cultural calendar. Supporters credit these initiatives with giving Pune greater visibility beyond its traditional academic and industrial identity.

Despite facing corruption allegations during his career, some opposition leaders acknowledged his a...