Krishnarao Sable, popularly known as 'Shahir Sable', whose songs enriched Maharashtra's culture, passed away here today after a brief illness. He was 92.
Born in 1923, Sable penned the evergreen patriotic song 'Garjaa Maharashtra Majha, Jai Jai Maharashtra Majha' (Hail! Maharashtra O' Mine!)
The bard of Maharashtra, who used entertainment as a medium to awaken social as well as political consciousness, also excelled as a poet, music director, lyricist, an adept percussionist, a creative actor-director as well as a singer.
The late Pu La Deshpande was among the admirers of this icon of Maharashtra's culture who entralled the masses with his repertoire of folk music.
'Shahir Sable' was born in a small village called Pasarni, in the Wai taluka of Maharashtra's Satara district.
His mother used to sing 'ovi' while grinding grain and his Warkari father used to sing bhajans. He was exposed to nationalistic sentiment through his association with writer Sane Guruji while in Amalner for his schooling.
Shahir Sable trained under the guidance of Shahir Shankarrao.
He considered Shahir Muchate as his role model. Sable changed the traditional form of 'Lok Natya' (folk theatre) and created a new form called 'Mukta Natya' (free drama).
Shahir Sable's contribution to social and political happenings as an activist as well as a performer has always been considered invaluable.
He actively participated in movements such as the 'Quit India' movement, the Goa liberation struggle and Hyderabad 'liberation' and the Samyukta Maharashtra movement.
He also fought hard for social causes such as anti-liquor campaigns, financial welfare of folk artists and rejuvenation of folk music.
