Veteran Marathi stage actor Bhalchandra Pendharkar passes away

Veteran Marathi stage actor, singer and drama producer Bhalchandra Pendharkar has died at a private hospital here today after a brief illness. He was 94. 

Born on November 25, 1921, at Hyderabad in Andhra Pradesh, Pendharkar was affectionately known as Anna and gained immense popularity through his play Duritanche Timir Javo. He received many honours and awards, including the Bal Gandharva award and the Vishnudas Bhave award. He was also a recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi award in 2004.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, in his condolence message, said Pendharkar had made a great contribution to Marathi theatre.