History of 24th August- Raosaheb Ganpat Jadhav
Explore the history of 24th August , including significant events like Julius Caesar’s general’s defeat, and the birth anniversary of Marathi literary icon Raosaheb Ganpat Jadhav. Delve into Jadhav’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a renowned figure in Marathi literature, his prolific writing career, contributions as an editor and teacher.
The history of 24th August takes us to the year 49 BCE when on this day Julius Caesar’s general Gaius Scribonius Curio is defeated in the Second Battle of the Bagradas River by the Numidians under Publius Attius Varus and King Juba of Numidia. Curio commits suicide to avoid capture.
Moving on with the history of 24th August we come to the year 410 when on this day Rome was overrun by Visigoths under Alaric I for the first time in nearly 800 years and this is seen as the fall of the Western Roman Empire.
With this we come to the main feature story where we remember Raosaheb Ganpat Jadhav on his birth anniversary
Raosaheb Ganpat Jadhav: A Literary Journey from Humble Beginnings to Literary Eminence
The tapestry of Indian literature is woven with threads of diverse cultures, languages, and voices. One such prominent thread is the literary legacy of Raosaheb Ganpat Jadhav, a distinguished Marathi writer who rose from humble origins to become a revered figure in the world of literature. His life’s journey is a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and profound contributions to Marathi literature.
Roots and Early Life
Born on August 24, 1932, in the princely state of Baroda, Raosaheb Ganpat Jadhav’s family hailed from the village of Kashil in the district of Satara, Maharashtra. His father served as a registrar in the bureaucracy of the Baroda state. Although born in Baroda, Jadhav spent his formative years in Pune, where he nurtured his literary inclinations.
Literary Prowess Emerges
Jadhav’s literary journey began with a resounding note of success. In 1949, he matriculated and secured the first position in the Sahitya Visharad examination conducted by Pune’s Maharashtra Sahitya Parishad. This early recognition of his literary talents paved the way for his future endeavors.
Soon after, Jadhav joined the Maharashtra State Road Transport Board and embarked on a decade-long professional journey in places like Swargate, Sangamner, and Nashik. Simultaneously, he pursued his academic aspirations, earning an MA degree in Marathi.
A Prolific Pen
Jadhav’s written words resonated with readers from various walks of life. His debut story, titled ‘Na Bighadnare Yantra,’ centered around a mother’s life, found its way into the weekly magazine Swarajya. This marked the beginning of his literary exploration.
Magazines such as Prasad, Sahyadri, Yashwant, Hans, Vangmay Shobha, and Apale Chhand regularly featured Jadhav’s stories, which gained increasing popularity. His creative spectrum extended to one-act plays and poems, showcasing his versatile expression.
While his venture into a full-act play might not have been as successful, Jadhav’s devotion to literature remained unswayed.
Teacher, Editor, and Beyond
Jadhav’s literary pursuits took him beyond just writing. From 1960 to 1970, he served as a Marathi professor at institutions like Vidarbha College in Amravati, Elphinstone College in Mumbai, and Milind College in Aurangabad. During the following two decades (1970-1990), he assumed the role of an editor in the human knowledge department of Marathi Vishwakosh in Wai. His commitment led to him becoming the president and chief editor of the same organization from 2000 to 2001.
A Resurgence in Literature
Upon retirement, Jadhav turned his attention to literature with renewed vigor. Having spent decades in teaching and editorial work, he revealed his identity as a writer. His anthology “Viyogbrahmya” (1995) showcased poems that emerged from his sensitive soul, inspired by the passing of his wife. “Mavaltichya Kavita” (1966) offered insights into his contemplative perspective on life.
A Critical Lens
Jadhav’s literary criticism was marked by its breadth and depth. His critical works encompassed diverse themes, from Bhakti literature to Marathi literature and cinema. Notable titles include “Anandacha Doh” (1973), where he analyzed Sant Tukaram’s abhangs, and “Nili Pahat” (1978) and “Nili Kshitije” (1982), where he delved into Dalit literature spanning six decades. “Nile Pani” discussed stories by renowned writers like Vaman Ghorpade, P.B. Bhave, and Baburao Bagul.
Legacy and Recognition
Jadhav’s contributions were not limited to the written word. In 2004, he was chosen as the president of the 77th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan in Aurangabad. His eloquent 56-page speech garnered acclaim from the literary world, with newspapers lauding his profound insights.
The legacy of Raosaheb Ganpat Jadhav is etched in the annals of Marathi literature. His journey from a small village to literary eminence serves as an inspiration to aspiring writers, scholars, and enthusiasts, highlighting the power of dedication, versatility, and a love for the written word.
That’s all from the history of 24th August.