
Veteran interpreter of Indian epics Daji Panshikar dies at 92, leaves rich legacy
West
Mumbai, June 7 (UNI) Daji Panshikar, a distinguished scholar and author renowned for his profound interpretations of Indian epics, passed away at his residence in the neighbouring city of Thane, Maharashtra, following a brief illness, family sources said here on Saturday. He was 92.
Panshikar devoted over fifty years to the study and dissemination of Hindu scriptures, including the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as the works of saint-poets. Throughout his career, he delivered more than 2,500 lectures, both in India and internationally.
For 16 consecutive years, he contributed regularly as a columnist to the Marathi daily 'Saamana'.
Among his acclaimed works are titles such as 'Mahabharata: Ek Sudacha Pravas', 'Karna: Khara Kon Thota?', 'Kathamrut', 'Kanikaniti', and the five-part series 'Unfamiliar Ramayana'.
In addition to his literary pursuits, Panshikar served as the manager of 'Natyasampada Natya Sanstha', a theatre organisation founded by his elder brother, the celebrated actor Prabhakar Panshikar. He collaborated closely with luminaries from literature, music, theatre, and film.
He is survived by his wife, two daughters, a son, and other family members. His last rites were performed on Saturday morning at Jawahar Bagh Crematorium in Thane West, which was attended by a large number of people.
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