Rajabhau Mangalwadekar dies in Pune

Pune, Apr 2 (UNI) Noted Marathi children's writer Rajabhau Mangalwadekar died here last night due to old age.

He was 81 and is survived by his wife, a son and daughter.

Mangalwadekar was born on December 11, 1925, at Pandharpur, near here. During his youth, he was deeply influenced by the life and mission of social worker Sane Guruji, specially his struggle to throw open the doors to all of the famed Vithal Temple at Pandharpur.

Mangalwadekar wrote widely about Sane Guruji and spread his mission in all parts of the state through his writings. His stories were simple and enjoyable for children, but they were also educative and meant to inculcate good values in them.

He wrote about the freedom struggle 'Aasa Jhunjhla Maza Bharat' and ancient Indian history in his book 'Ha Shodh Bharatacha'. He also wrote about the deaf and dumb in his book 'Mukya' for which he received acclaims and awards.

Mangalwadekar familiarised children about different regions and states and their cultures in his books.

UNI DWN SSS MA KP1934