Marathi stage actor Prabhakar Panshikar passes away

Pune, Jan 13 (PTI) Eminent Marathi stage actor PrabhakarPanshikar died in a city hospital tonight following prolongedillness.

He was 79.

Panshikar who left an indelible mark on Marathi stage ina career spanning over five decades immortalised the role of''Lakhoba Lokhande'', a conman portrayed in the landmark play''To mee navech'' (It is not me) by legendary P K Atre that heldthe audience spellbound with record breaking over 2000performances.

Among the other 40 plays which he brought alive with hismemorable performances included ''Yeth Oshala Mrutyu'',''Ashrunchi Zali Phule'', ''Thank you Mr Glad'', and ''Bhatala diliOsri''.

Panshikar also founded ''Natyasampada'', a drama companythat produced a number of quality plays.

He was honoured with many awards for his exceptionalacting talent, including ''Maharashtra Bhushan''.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan had recentlyannounced financial assistance for treatment of Panshikarafter his admission to hospital.