Pune: Renowned Marathi writer, poet, and former Doordarshan newsreader Prof. Anant Bhave passed away in Pune on Sunday (February 23) at the age of 88 after a brief illness.
A recipient of the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award in 2013 for his contributions to children's literature, Prof. Bhave had an illustrious literary and journalistic career. He resided in Pune’s Baner area following the demise of his wife, Prof. Pushpa Bhave, in 2020.
Prof. Bhave was a distinguished academician who served as a Marathi professor at Somaiya College in Mumbai. His impeccable command of the language, precise pronunciation, and unique presentation style made him a revered newsreader on Doordarshan.
Over his career, he authored more than 50 books, particularly in children's literature and poetry. Some of his well-known works include Ajjaba Goshti Gajjaba Goshti, Ashi Sutti Surekh Bai, Kasav Chale Haluhalu, Chal Re Bhoplya Tunuk Tunuk, and Chimane Chimane.
Beyond books, he was a prolific columnist, writing regularly for Manus weekly and the Mahanagar daily, where his witty and engaging column Vadapav gained widespread popularity.
Following the passing of his wife, noted Marathi critic and social activist Prof. Pushpa Bhave, Prof. Anant Bhave spent his later years at Athashri Apartments in Pune. He strongly believed that "modern advancements in knowledge, science, and technology have changed the language and preferences of younger generations. To make poetry relatable to children, it is essential to instill the habit of listening to poetry from an early age."
Prominent Marathi writer Shripad Bhalchandra Joshi expressed deep sorrow over his demise, remembering him as a "gentle, dignified, and resolute individual." He fondly recalled, "Anant Bhave and his wife, Pushpa Bhave, were an exemplary progressive couple in Maharashtra. Anant Bhave had an innate ability to connect with children, much like Sane Guruji. He was a regular presence at literary conventions and could often be seen on the bustling Dadar railway platform, patiently waiting for his train while deeply engrossed in a book."