India, Jan. 29 -- Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday described Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's tragic death in a plane crash as unbelievable, and said he had lost a good friend.

Fadnavis said "today" (January 28) will be a government holiday and there will be a three-day State mourning as a mark of respect to Pawar. Ajit Pawar's death has left a void that will never be filled, he said. "After working closely together, it is unbelievable that he is no more," Fadnavis said.

Talking to reporters, Fadnavis described Pawar as a people's leader who knew the State well and had a deep understanding of the issues in Maharashtra. He said it takes several years to build and establish such leadership.

Fadnavis said he had apprised Pr...