Purushottam Laxman Deshpande (1919-2000)

Commemorative Stamp: P.L. Deshpande (Pu. La.)

Design Elements:

• Main Image: The stamp features a portrait of P.L. Deshpande, affectionately known as “Pu. La.,” capturing his vibrant and joyful personality, along with symbolic elements representing his contributions to literature, music, drama, and films.
• Background: Musical notes and theatrical masks subtly incorporated into the background represent his mastery in the fields of music and drama. A book symbolizes his literary genius, especially his humorous writing and insightful portrayals of everyday people.

Life and Contributions:

• Early Life and Multi-Talented Persona: Born in 1919, Pu. La. Deshpande was a remarkable cultural figure in Maharashtra, known for his vast array of talents. An exceptional harmonium player, singer, actor, and speaker, he was a multifaceted personality who excelled in many artistic disciplines.
• Literature and Humor: As a writer, his unique sense of humor and fluency in Marathi made him one of the most beloved figures in Marathi literature. His works, filled with wit and satire, brought humor into the lives of ordinary people without being offensive.

Key Works:

Notable Literary Works:

• His famous collection of character sketches, Vyakti Ani Valli, earned him the prestigious Sahitya Academy Award.
• Tee Phoolrani and Teen Paishacha Tamasha, adaptations of George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion and Bertolt Brecht’s Three Penny Opera, showcased his ability to blend foreign works into Marathi culture seamlessly.
• His travelogues, rich with observation and humor, gave a humane portrayal of people from different lands, capturing their quirks and individuality.

Contributions to Theater and Cinema:

Plays and Films:

• Pu. La. wrote several successful plays like Tuzhe Ahe Tuzhya Pashi and directed films such as Gulacha Ganapati and Devbappa, which highlighted his storytelling brilliance and sense of humor.
• His light-hearted play Waryawarchi Warat was a popular entertainer and solidified his reputation as a master of comedy.

Social Impact:

• Humor and Everyday Life: Pu. La. is particularly remembered for his gentle, non-malicious humor. He had the gift of turning ordinary situations and people into delightful stories that brought joy to many. His humor resonated with common people, providing them with laughter and comfort in their daily lives.
• Philanthropy: Beyond his creative endeavors, Pu. La. was also a philanthropist, contributing generously to causes aimed at the welfare of society.

Recognition and Legacy:

• Legend of Marathi Art: Pu. La. shaped an entire generation’s cultural sensibilities through his books, plays, and performances. His contributions to Marathi literature and art have left an indelible mark, and he continues to be remembered as one of Maharashtra’s cultural icons.

Commemoration:

• The Department of Posts honors the life and legacy of Pu. La. Deshpande with the release of a commemorative stamp and First Day Cover, celebrating his immense contributions to Indian art, literature, and culture.