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Time of India

Renowned Novelist Shubhangi Bhadbhade Passes Away; A Literary Era Ends

1 2 3 Nagpur: In a tragic loss to the world of Marathi literature, acclaimed author and senior novelist Shubhangi Bhadbhade passed away on Monday morning at Nagpur. She was 80 and remained actively engaged in literary pursuits till her last day. She is survived by three sons — Sunil, Sujit, and Sagar — along with daughters-in-law and grandchildren. Her last rites will be performed at Ambazari Ghat at 10am on Wednesday. A true literary devotee, Bhadbhade, known to all as Shubhangi Tai, authored over 80 novels, two short story collections, and numerous essays and thought pieces. She was especially known for her biographical novels — a genre in which she made a mark with her distinctive style. She wrote on stalwarts like Swatantryaveer Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, RSS founder Dr KB Hedgewar, Guruji Golwalkar, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, offering insightful perspectives into their lives. Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed deep sorrow over her demise, calling her 'a gifted literary figure and a guiding light for the writing community'. "Through her Padmagandha Pratishthan, she created a strong platform for emerging writers, especially in Vidarbha. Her biographical novel 'Mrityunjayacha Mahayadnya' on Savarkar was a milestone. I requested her to turn it into an audiobook, and she gladly agreed — that project was completed. I often wrote forewords for her books, which gave us frequent opportunities for discussion," he recalled in an emotional tribute. "We have lost a talented writer and a senior mentor. I offer heartfelt condolences to her family, admirers, and the literary fraternity." Union minister Nitin Gadkari also paid homage, describing her as a cultural force who nurtured literature in Vidarbha. "Her contribution to literature is unforgettable. With over 80 novels, she has left behind an invaluable treasure for readers. Through Padmagandha Pratishthan, she consistently organised unique literary events like the Lekhika Natya Mahotsav and several literary meets," said Gadkari. "She connected women writers across Vidarbha and inspired many young authors. Her passing is a major loss to the literary world. May the Bhadbhade family find strength in this moment of grief." Revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule also offered condolences. People from the literature scene in Nagpur recalled that Bhadbhade attended the launch event of 'Mee Aaryaputra', the translated novel of Dr Bharati Sudame on July 27 evening. She interacted warmly with guests and well-wishers — her final public appearance before the sudden news of her passing stunned the literary community. In March this year, Bhadbhade presented Prime Minister Narendra Modi a pre-release copy of her novel 'Rajyogi', which traces his rise from an ordinary RSS worker to the prime minister. BOX SHUBHANGI BHADBHADE: LIFE AT A GLANCE Born: December 21, 1945, in Mumbai (then Bombay) Education: M.A. in Hindi, Sahitya Ratna Major Works: - 11 biographical novels - 18 social novels - 5 short story collections - 12 one-act play collections - 3 full-length plays - Column writing, children's literature, and translation into various Indian languages - Radio and Doordarshan broadcasts of plays and talks Honours & Awards: - Kavita Puraskar by Maharashtra Sahitya Sabha - Ekanki Lekhan Puraskar by Vidarbha Sahitya Sangh and Akhil Bharatiya Natya Parishad, Mumbai - Katha Puraskar by Sahitya Akademi, Baroda - Suman Deshpande Bal Sahitya Puraskar - Bal Upanyas Puraskar - Uttkrushta Vangmay Puraskar by the govt of Maharashtra for her short story collection Saaransh