P. L. Deshpande

Biography

P. L. Deshpande (8 November 1919 – 12 June 2000), popularly known as Pu. La. Deshpande, was an Indian writer, humorist, playwright, actor, filmmaker, musician, and philanthropist. He is regarded as one of the greatest literary figures in Marathi literature and was equally celebrated for his contributions to theatre, cinema, music, radio, and television.

Early Life

Purushottam Laxman Deshpande was born on 8 November 1919 in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. He developed an early interest in literature, music, and theatre, and received formal training in music while pursuing his education. His diverse artistic talents laid the foundation for a remarkable multidisciplinary career.

Career

Deshpande began his career as a teacher before entering the worlds of radio, theatre, and cinema. He worked with All India Radio and later with India's national television broadcaster, helping shape Marathi cultural programming.

As an author, he wrote essays, travelogues, humorous sketches, biographies, and plays that became classics of Marathi literature. His keen observations of everyday life, combined with wit and compassion, made him one of Maharashtra's most beloved writers.

In cinema, he worked as an actor, screenwriter, director, music composer, and producer in both Marathi and Hindi films.

Notable Films

• Gulacha Ganpati (1953) – Writer, Director, Actor
• Devbappa (1953)
• Doodh Bhat (1953)
• Phool Aur Kaliyan (1960)
• Aaj Aur Kal (1963) – Story
• Vande Mataram (1948)

Literary Works

Some of his most celebrated books include:

• Vyakti Ani Valli
• Batatyachi Chaal
• Asa Mi Asami
• Apoorvai
• Purvarang
• Hasavanuk

These works remain immensely popular and are considered milestones in Marathi literature.

Awards and Honours

Deshpande received numerous prestigious honours, including:

• Padma Shri (1966)
• Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship (1979)
• Padma Bhushan (1990)
• Maharashtra Bhushan Award (1996)

Personal Life

He was married to writer and social worker Sunita Deshpande. The couple was deeply involved in philanthropic activities through the Pu. La. Deshpande Foundation, supporting education, literature, healthcare, and cultural initiatives.

Death

Purushottam Laxman Deshpande passed away on 12 June 2000 in Pune, Maharashtra, India, at the age of 80.