Anantrao Thopte, a veteran politician and former minister from Maharashtra, passed away at the age of 93 in a private hospital in Pune. Thopte had been undergoing treatment for age-related ailments for nearly a month prior to his death. A six-time Congress MLA, he represented the Bhor Assembly constituency and played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of Pune district. Known for his independent political stance, Thopte was a notable rival of senior leader Sharad Pawar throughout his career. He served as the district guardian minister for approximately 13 years and held significant portfolios, including education and animal husbandry, in various Congress-led administrations. Despite being viewed as a contender for the chief minister's position, his political journey faced challenges, including a defeat in the 1999 Assembly elections. His death prompted condolences from leaders across party lines, with the Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar acknowledging his cultured and development-oriented leadership. Thopte's son, Sangram Thopte, confirmed that his father passed away due to age-related health issues.