Sanjay Rambhau Gaikwad is an Indian politician and agriculturist from Buldhana, Maharashtra. He is a two-time MLA from the Buldhana constituency, elected in both 2019 and 2024. Known for his bold speeches and controversial behavior, Gaikwad represents the Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) and remains a polarizing figure in Maharashtra politics. Despite his grassroots connection and rural voter base, his violent conduct and provocative remarks have drawn strong public and legal criticism.
Sanjay Gaikwad Wiki/Bio
| Full Name | Sanjay Rambhau Gaikwad |
| Date of Birth | 1 July 1967 (Saturday) |
| Age (as of 2025) | 58 years |
| Birthplace | Buldhana, Maharashtra, India |
| Hometown | Buldhana, Maharashtra |
| Current Residence | Maharashtra, India |
| Profession | Politician, Agriculturist |
| Political Party | Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Pooja Gaikwad |
| Son | Kunal Sanjay Gaikwad (also in politics) |
| Education | Studied up to 9th grade, Shri Shivaji Vidyalaya |
Physical Details
| Attribute | Details |
| Height | 5’7” (170 cm) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Black |
Early Life and Background
Sanjay Gaikwad was born and raised in Buldhana, Maharashtra, into a farming family. His father, Rambhau Gaikwad, was also a farmer. Despite a modest educational background (studied only till 9th grade), Sanjay developed a strong interest in public service and eventually joined politics. His rural background helped him connect with the local population, especially farmers and small-town voters.
Personal Life and Family
Sanjay Gaikwad is married to Pooja Gaikwad, a homemaker. The couple has a son, Kunal Gaikwad, who is also involved in politics. Gaikwad claims to be a judo-karate champion and often mentions his strength when justifying his confrontational actions. He strongly identifies with Marathi culture and regional pride.
Sanjay Gaikwad Political Career
Sanjay Gaikwad began his political career with Shiv Sena and emerged as a strong leader in Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. He became widely known after winning the 2019 Maharashtra Assembly elections, narrowly defeating Congress candidate Harshawardhan Sapkal by 841 votes. He was re-elected in 2024, further cementing his position in regional politics.
He gained further prominence in 2022 when he supported Eknath Shinde’s breakaway faction during the Shiv Sena party split, moving away from the Uddhav Thackeray-led alliance.
Career Milestones
- Elected MLA from Buldhana (2019, 2024)
- Aligned with Eknath Shinde during Shiv Sena split (2022)
- Known for aggressive speeches and rural-focused politics
Sanjay Gaikwad Controversies
July 2025 Canteen Assault
In one of his most talked-about incidents, Sanjay Gaikwad assaulted a canteen staffer at the MLA hostel in Colaba, Mumbai, on 8 July 2025. He slapped and punched the worker over complaints of stale food, an incident captured on video. Though a non-cognizable complaint was filed, there was no arrest. The Maharashtra FDA suspended the canteen’s license following the incident.
September 2024 – Rahul Gandhi Threat
Gaikwad publicly offered ₹11 lakh to anyone who would “chop off” Rahul Gandhi’s tongue in response to a statement made about reservations. This sparked national outrage and police scrutiny. (News Link)
Other Controversies
- February 2024: Claimed he wore a tiger’s tooth pendant from a hunt in 1987. Booked under Wildlife Protection Act.
- March 2024: Seen beating a man with a baton during a Shiv Jayanti procession.
- March 2024: A police officer was filmed washing his car, drawing backlash for misuse of resources.
- April 2025: Called Maharashtra Police the “most inefficient” during a rally. He later apologized.
- July 2025: Made derogatory remarks about South Indians, alleging they run bars that ruin Maharashtra’s culture.
- Historical Figure Remarks: Faced backlash for comments against Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji Raje, though he later apologized.
Sanjay Gaikwad Net Worth
| Approx. Net Worth | ₹1.23 crore (as of 2019) |
| Movable Assets | ₹5.1 lakh+ (cash, deposits, jewellery) |
| Immovable Assets | ₹1.55 crore+ (land) |
| Vehicles | Rolls Royce, Toyota Fortuner |
His wealth disclosure from 2019 shows a modest but significant portfolio for a regional leader.
Public Image and Legacy
Gaikwad is often seen as a no-filter leader, unafraid to speak his mind or take direct action. His supporters admire his boldness, but critics and opposition leaders frequently label him violent and abusive of power. Viral videos, especially from 2024–2025, have increased public attention on his actions. Reactions on social media have been sharply divided, with both satire and outrage marking his online presence.
Despite controversy, Gaikwad continues to hold his seat and has a loyal voter base, especially among rural populations. His career reflects the complex nature of regional Indian politics, where grassroots strength can often overshadow elite criticism.
FAQs about Sanjay Gaikwad
Is Sanjay Gaikwad a current MLA?
Yes, he was elected again in 2024 from Buldhana.
Which party does he belong to?
Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction)
What are his biggest controversies?
The canteen assault, Rahul Gandhi remark, tiger tooth claim, and police criticism.
Is his son also in politics?
Yes, his son Kunal Gaikwad is also active in political work.