Pavankhind  (Marathi, Paperback, DESAI RANJEET)

The Marathi novel, Pavankhind, is centered on a particular event related to the life of Shivaji.

Summary Of The Book

The literature of any region always abounds in tales of heroism and valour, especially of kings and those in the service of the royalty. In Maratha history and literature, the empire created by Shivaji, and Shivaji himself, are the central topics of many legendary tales.

This book focuses on an event in Shivaji’s life. But the hero of this tiny novel is not the great Maratha ruler himself, but one of his trusted lieutenants, Baji Prabhu Deshpande. Shivaji was surrounded by many loyal companions like Tanaji, Netaji, Baji, and Yesaji.

Shivaji, to realize his dreams of establishing a Hindu kingdom in his motherland, had to take on many enemies, like the Mughals and Adil Shah of Bijapur. At the time the events of this story take place, Siddi Jauhar, one of Bijapur’s military commanders, laid siege to the fort of Panhala to take it back from Shivaji.

But Shivaji and his Maratha forces offered stiff resistance, even when the British artillery came to the aid of Siddi Jauhar. However, essential supplies ran out due to the prolonged siege, and Shivaji and his forces were in a predicament. They had to abandon the fort and escape capture by enemy forces.

Baji Prabhu Deshpande, along with another trusted companion of Shivaji, managed to draw the attention of the enemy forces as Shivaji escaped.

But, in the ensuing battle, Baji lost his life. However, he fended of the enemies, despite being critically wounded and kept fighting till he heard the signal that announced that Shivaji was safe.

This book elaborates this story, celebrating the heroism and loyalty of Baji Prabhu Deshpande, one of the bravest figures of Maratha history.

About Ranjeet Desai

Ranjeet Desai was a celebrated Marathi novelist and playwright.

Other books by Ranjeet Desai include Roop Mahal, Madhumati, Kanchan Mrug, Shriman Yogi, Raja Ravi Varma, Rangalya Ratri Ashya, and Sangoli Rayana.

He wrote numerous short stories, plays and novels.

Ranjeet Desai was born in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, in 1928. His works are still extremely popular among the Marathi people. He received several awards for his plays and other works including the Maharashtra Rajya Award, the Hari Narayan Apte Award, and the Maharashtra Gaurav Puraskar.