As Maharashtra embraces a new era of technology, innovation, and cultural pride, Hon. Minister Ashish Shelar — Minister of Information Technology and Cultural Affairs — is at the forefront of this transformation. Known for his grounded approach and people-first leadership, he seamlessly balances preserving the state’s rich heritage with driving its digital future. In this candid conversation, he opens up about the experiences, inspirations, and values that guide him, sharing his vision for a Maharashtra where progress and pride go hand-in-hand.
By Andrea CostaBir
Excerpts from the interview…
Looking back, how did growing up in a middle-class household, studying law, and being part of the RSS shape your life? What drew you to politics?
I never imagined I’d become a politician. My middle-class upbringing and study of law built the foundation for my social life. Growing up in Mumbai’s Girangaon, in a chawl, you naturally learn to share, coexist, and celebrate others’ success. My parents weren’t highly educated, but they were deeply value-oriented.
My modest school emphasised character over marks, and that focus on moral grounding stayed with me. I still remember being chosen at school to write about festivals like Dussehra etc on the blackboard (as I had good handwriting) — that sparked my interest in our traditions and heritage.
Joining the RSS — which has now completed 100 years — was transformative. It wasn’t about politics; it was about building character. Through games, prayers, and discipline, it instilled in me the belief that good citizens create a good society.
I pursued B.Sc. in Chemistry, intending to do my Master’s, but destiny had other plans. Guided by my guru, I joined student movements and began working for educational reform. My father supported me but insisted I continue my studies. Law allowed me to combine intellectual development with social service. I practised law for 10 years, it sharpened my understanding of justice, rights and governance — shaping my approach to public life.
So, my middle-class roots, culturally rich family, value-based education, association with the RSS, and study of law — all came together to shape who I am today.
Having held many roles within the BJP – from youth leader to minister – which parts of that journey have been most meaningful?
When I joined the BJP formally in 1994, I was already part of the larger Sangh Parivar. In 1995, when the BJP formed the Maharashtra Government under Shri Manohar Joshi and Shri Gopinath Munde, Shri Pramod Mahajan assigned me as the Secretary of the Government Coordination Committee. That experience was invaluable. In my very first meeting chaired by Shri Mahajan, I saw his clarity, attention to detail, and depth of vision. It taught me that politics demands constant learning, precision and discipline. Working closely with Amit Shahji was a major turning point. His blend of spiritual grounding, legal acumen, and razor-sharp focus deeply influenced me. And Narendra Modiji’s leadership has been absolutely inspiring. I remember him once asking me about a change in my expression while he was speaking — that attentiveness and connection to people left a lasting impact. These experiences — learning from leaders like, Amit Shahji, and Modiji — combined with my RSS discipline, have given me strength, focus and purpose throughout my journey.
As Minister of IT and Cultural Affairs, what excites you most about these portfolios?
Handling both IT and Cultural Affairs lets me shape two sides of Maharashtra’s future — technological progress and cultural preservation.
Under Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavisji and in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modiji’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, we’re committed to development that has a human and cultural face. As Modiji says, progress must flow from virasat to vikas — from heritage to development.
We’re digitising over 17 crore historical manuscripts to preserve Maharashtra’s heritage. We’ve also secured UNESCO World Heritage recognition for 12 forts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and are working towards global recognition for more monuments and temples. Temples are centers of energy and culture, so we’re improving their surroundings to boost tourism and local economies. In a landmark move to safeguard Maharashtra’s rich cultural legacy, the State Government has announced a comprehensive plan to restore and promote 500 temples, 60 stateprotected forts, and 1,200 historic stepwells (baravs) across the state. The initiative aims to preserve ancient architecture while boosting cultural tourism. The plan will focus on conservation, maintenance, and enhancing visitor experiences at key heritage sites. We’re also reviving dying art forms and supporting the artists who keep them alive. To guide this effort, we’ve launched Maharashtra Sanskritik Dhoran, the state’s cultural policy till 2047. I believe culture is India’s soft power — our literature, art and values define our civilizational strength.
The people of your Bandra–Khar constituency speak very fondly of you – across religions and cultures. How do you stay connected?
I don’t see the people of Bandra–Khar as constituents — they’re family. When a family member calls at 2 a.m, you don’t ask “why”; you ask “what happened?” That’s how I feel about my constituency. Staying connected has never required effort. If I get a missed call or message, I respond. People have seen that while there may be delays, there’s never a loss of focus.
Having served continuously for over two decades, I consider that trust my greatest blessing — my Sadguru’s grace. I engage with everyone, including those who didn’t vote for me. In a family, disagreements happen, but relationships endure.
Bandra–Khar has also been my teacher. The residents are civic-minded, informed, and collaborative — they don’t just complain; they help find solutions. It’s a microcosm of India: Diverse, vibrant and progressive. Representing them has been both an honour and an education.
Politics often involves tough choices. What personal values guide you through them?
My mother always said, “Think of others and work for others. When faced with personal gain versus public good, choose the larger good.” That has been my compass.
As a corporator, when the historic Crawford Market was nearly leased to a developer for one rupee, I resisted, even against allies. It wasn’t about politics — it was about protecting Mumbai’s heritage. The project was halted, and Crawford Market stands preserved today.
My wife, Pratima, shares the same values. When my ward was reserved for women, many urged her to contest. She refused, saying, “Those who’ve worked for years deserve the chance.” That humility and fairness define our family ethos.
Integrity and public good must always come first. That’s the value system I live by.
Who has been the biggest influence in your life?
My A to Z is my Guru. I’ve realised over time that life is about fulfilling your karmic duties. My Guru’s guidance helps me stay grounded, introspective, and aligned with my purpose. Whatever dedication and discipline I have, come from that spiritual source.
How has your family supported you along the way?
My parents came from humble means — my father was a Class III–IV employee, my mother stitched sari blouses for other women at home. Yet, they always prioritised our future.
When I got married, my wife left a comfortable home to live modestly with me — that humility speaks volumes. When my mother passed away, my son gave me strength like an elder family member, proving those same values live on.
Even my father-in-law, though he was from another political party, taught me to respect differences and value integrity above all. My family has been my foundation and moral compass.
I consider myself truly fortunate to have the care and support of my mother-in-law, sister, brother and brotherin-law. Each of them has played a special role in my life, offering encouragement and understanding. My mother-inlaw, in particular, has shown me remarkable warmth and compassion. My sister and brother have always stood by me. Their unwavering support has been a pillar of strength throughout my journey, and I am grateful to each of them for their love and faith in me.
You’ve been closely associated with cricket. Could you speak about that?
Cricket has been a lifelong passion — from gully cricket to college matches to the Bar Council team, where I played as a wicketkeeper-batsman.
In administration, I’ve served as Mumbai Cricket Association President, BCCI Treasurer, and now on the Asian Cricket Council Board. We launched the Mumbai Premier League to promote local talent — players like Suryakumar Yadav emerged from it. Under Jay Shah’s sharp and forward-looking leadership, Indian cricket has reached new heights. As BCCI Secretary, he’s strengthened domestic cricket, elevated women’s cricket, and propelled the IPL to global dominance. Blending innovation with respect for tradition, he has redefined cricket administration and positioned India as cricket’s true powerhouse.
Tell us about the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL).
ISPL was born from our love for grassroots cricket. We wanted to give street cricketers a professional platform. Every gully has its own Sachin Tendulkar — ISPL gives them recognition and livelihood.
Sachin Tendulkar helped design the format and rules. Bollywood stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Saif Ali Khan, Ajay Devgn, and Akshay Kumar own teams. With 44 lakh registrations so far, ISPL has become a national movement — taking talent from the streets to the stadium.
You’re close to many cricketers and film personalities. What have you learnt from them?
Each of them has taught me something, and there are just too many of them to talk about… but I will name only a few: Amitabh Bachchanji — punctuality and humility. Asha Bhosleji — passion; she still performs with full energy at 92. Sachin Tendulkar — calmness and grace.
Yuvraj Singh’s comeback from illness inspired me deeply. I read widely — even Parveen Babi’s story taught me empathy and understanding of life’s complexities. Everyone’s life is a lesson if you’re willing to learn.
What legacy do you hope to build for Maharashtra and beyond?
My focus is on making Maharashtra a leader in both technology and culture. We’ve advanced from e-governance to AI governance, creating policies for GCCs, drones, and cybersecurity while attracting global industries.
Culturally, we’ve launched the first Marathi International Film Festival and plan to host the 100thyear Oscars celebration in Mumbai in 2027. We declared Ganeshotsav as Maharashtra’s state festival and are seeking UNESCO recognition for it.
Every World Reading Day, I gift books to over a hundred people because reading builds character. My legacy, I hope, will be enriching Maharashtra — culturally, intellectually and technologically — ensuring our future generations inherit pride and purpose.
Maharashtra’s Digital Transformation Drive
Maharashtra is rapidly emerging as a national leader in technology-driven governance and innovation. Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the Information Technology department has launched several key initiatives to build a secure, inclusive, and future-ready digital economy.
The Aaple Sarkar portal — now upgraded and available as a mobile app — offers 485 Government services online, ensuring faster and more transparent delivery to citizens. To strengthen access further, 4,066 new Aadhaar kits are being distributed across districts, expanding digital reach and efficiency.
Maharashtra has also taken a pioneering step by becoming India’s first state to establish an AI Policy Task Force to drive innovation, support industry growth, and align with the national India AI Mission. Complementing this effort, the Government has announced a Cybersecurity Policy Taskforce 2025 to protect digital infrastructure, foster research and skill development, and enhance cyber resilience across sectors.
In a major move towards digital inclusion, the State has signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Starlink Satellite Communications Pvt Ltd to bring satellite-based internet connectivity to remote and underserved districts such as Gadchiroli, Nandurbar, Dharashiv, and Washim.
This collaboration will connect government institutions, schools, and healthcare centres in areas with limited connectivity, ensuring last-mile access under the Digital Maharashtra mission.
These initiatives reaffirm our commitment to making technology the foundation of inclusive growth. Maharashtra’s digital transformation is not just about infrastructure — it’s about empowering every citizen and shaping a smarter, more connected future for the state.
Finally, what message do you wish to share with the youth of India?
Honestly, I learn from the youth every day, but if I were to share something with them, it would be: • Be humble — it keeps you grounded.
• Be receptive — listen before you speak. Even great minds like Chief Justice DY Chandrachud exemplify that.
• Be empathetic — thinking of others gives you atma shakti (inner strength) and iccha shakti (willpower).
• Success isn’t the end — peace comes from living for others. That’s true fulfillment — that’s moksha.
Anything you’d like to add before we wrap up?
For me, whether it’s culture, IT, sports, or heritage — it all comes down to building pride in who we are and creating opportunities for everyone to rise. My work is my sadhana, and I’ll continue to serve with that spirit.
Films & Beyond
A storyteller at heart, blending creativity with social purpose.
• Produced acclaimed short films under the Spandan Art banner, including:
• A film on the July 26 Mumbai deluge — showcased at the Goa Film Festival.
• ‘Tapasvi’ — based on the life of Guruji Madhav Sadashiv Golwalkar.
• ‘Dead Chimney’ — depicting the struggles of Mumbai’s mill workers.
• For over 14 years, has honoured music industry stalwarts through annual celebrations recognising their lifelong contributions.
Literature Lore
Beyond politics, he continues to inspire through art, language and culture.
• Honoured as Swagatadhyaksha at the 16th Silver Jubilee Literary Conference of the Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad.
• President, National Library (Bandra), contributing to literary awareness and community engagement.
• Promoted Marathi literature through book fairs, novel launches, and Marathi Bhasha Din programs, along with cultural events like Diwali Pahat.
• Established the Marathi Language Study Centre under Granthali Sanstha, Bandra.
Always The Sport!
A true sports enthusiast who turned passion into policy.
• Over a decade of active involvement in the Mumbai Cricket Association — served as Vice President and later as President.
• Played a key role in rebuilding Wankhede Stadium ahead of the 2011 World Cup Final, and served on the 2016 T20 World Cup managing committee.
• Launched the Mumbai Cricket Premier League to nurture young talent and later introduced the Indian Street Premier League, offering a platform for gully cricket players.
• Created multi-sport facilities in Bandra for cricket, football, hockey, archery, basketball and skating.
• Served as Chairman, BCCI Marketing Committee, and as President, Mumbai District Football Association, representing 350 football clubs.
• Vice President, Rajasthan Sports Club; and Maharashtra President, Rope Skipping Association — championing inclusivity in sports at all levels.
• Boxing Federation of India – participated in the elections and helped many deserving participants.
Directing With Heart, Dedication & Vision
From student activism to city governance — a journey marked by energy, courage, and commitment.
• Mumbai Secretary, ABVP
• Mumbai President, BJP Yuva Morcha
• Executive Member, BJP General Convention Core Team (1995)
• Twice elected Corporator, BMC (Khar West)
• BJP North West District President
• Group Leader, BJP Corporators, BMC
• Chairman, Improvements Committee
• Member, MMRDA
• Governor, Mumbai Metro Heritage Society
• President, Bandra Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Coordinating Committee
• Active member, Maharashtra Samaj Sanstha, Kshatriya Gadkari Maratha Federation
Leading With A Human Touch A leader shaped by humble beginnings and driven by empathy for every Mumbaikar.
• Having grown up in a MHADA transit camp, he championed redevelopment policies ensuring residents received free homes in the same locality — a promise fulfilled.
• During the Covid pandemic, when Assembly sessions were suspended, he personally toured Maharashtra, meeting MLAs and MPs to understand their constituency issues and presented a detailed report to the party leadership.
Political Responsibilities Fulfilled
With every election and responsibility, he has proved that leadership rooted in service brings results that matter.
• Won the 2014, 2019 and 2024 Assembly Elections from Bandra West with thumping majorities of 26,911 and 26,550 votes.
• Elected unopposed as MLC to the Maharashtra Legislative Council in 2012.
• Under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi, Amit Shahji, and Devendra Fadnavisji, he steered Mumbai BJP to historic victory in the 2017 BMC elections, winning 82 seats across 33 constituencies.
• Played a key role in organising PM Modi’s “Maha Garjana” rally at BKC before the 2014 Lok Sabha elections.
• Repeated this success and ensured victory for all six alliance candidates in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.
• As Mumbai BJP President (since 2013), worked tirelessly to strengthen the party’s grassroots structure — connecting with every section of society and living the spirit of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.”
• Made special efforts to connect with minority communities — resolving issues, fostering inclusion, and earning the trust of all Mumbaikars.
• As MLA, MLC, and Mumbai BJP President, actively led civic movements, raised key issues in the Assembly, and earned the ‘Best Parliamentarian Award’.
• Entrusted by the party with key election responsibilities — from two Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka to constituencies in Surat (Gujarat), Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Delhi municipal polls — all resulting in significant victories.
• After the Elphinstone Road railway bridge tragedy in Mumbai, he initiated the unprecedented step of involving the Indian Army, enabling record-time bridge construction — a first in India’s history.
• As Education Minister, earned admiration from students and teachers alike for progressive reforms in just six months.
• Renowned as an assertive voice for Mumbai, he has consistently stood up for Ganeshotsav, Dahi Handi, and Navratri mandals — even taking cultural issues to the High Court to protect Mumbai’s traditions.
A Journey Of Service & Leadership
A leader whose vision, conviction and compassion have shaped Mumbai’s progress and inspired countless people. Here’s a list of posts held so far:
• Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA).
• Cabinet Minister of Information Technology & Cultural Affairs.
• President, Mumbai BJP (Third Term).
• Treasurer, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
• Member, Mission Olympic Cell.
• Former Minister for School Education, Sports & Youth Welfare.
• Former President, Mumbai Cricket Association.
• Ex-Official Board Member of the Asian Cricket Council.
