Eminent historian and writer Babasaheb Purandare was awarded with Maharashtra Bhushan Award 2015, in literature category by the Government of Maharashtra in a function held at Raj Bhavan, Mumbai.
Babasaheb is a well known personality, especially in Maharashtra, for his writings on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj - the iconic king specially revered by Marathi people.
Babasaheb Purandare is popularly called as ‘Shiv Shahir’ meaning the one who sings ballards on Shivaji.
Purandare became well known after he wrote the book named ‘Raja Shiv Chhatrapati’. Thereafter he established a popular play named ‘Janata Raja’. ‘Raja Shiv Chhatrapati’ has more than 16 editions and is widely read across the state. ‘Janata Raja’ has completed its 850 shows including those held in United States.
About Maharashtra Bhushan Award
- The award was instituted in 1995 by the government of Maharashtra.
- It is a highest civilian award given by the state of Maharashtra and is presented annually by the state government.
- The award was initially conferred in the fields of Art, Science, Literature and Sport. Later, it included Journalism, Social Work, Public Administration and Health Services.
- Eminent Marathi writer and humorist Purushottam Laxman Deshpande was first recipient of this prestigious award in 1996.
