Noted sculptor D S Khatavkar, who started the tradition of decorative tableaux at the "Sarvajanik Ganesh" pandals, died here due to age-related ailments.
He was 86 and is survived by wife, two sons and a daughter.
Khatavkar passed away last night at his residence, family sources said today.
An alumnus of Mumbai-based J J School of Arts, Khatavkar won accolades for the artistic scene showcasing Lord Ram's voyage in exile in 1953 at the 'pandal' (marquee) of the city's prestigious "Tulshibaug" Ganesh mandal (group).
He continued to depict a variety of themes based on history and mythology that inspired and moulded other artists in Maharashtra, where the annual 10-day Ganesh festival forms an important part of its cultural calendar.
Khatavkar came in the limelight again in 1985 when he created spectacular sets for "Janata Raja", a play conceived and written by eminent historian Babasaheb Purandare based on life of Chhatrapati Shivaji.
The play had a live participation of elephants and horses that became a rage in Maharashtra and Kharavkar carved out a niche for himself for portrayal of the scene of the Maratha warrior king's coronation which became a benchmark in the stage art direction.
The veteran sculptor worked as art teacher at many colleges and institutions, shaping a new generation of artists.
He also authored a book, "The History of Indian Sculpture" and won various awards, including "Kalashri Puraskar", "Samajratna" and "Lokmanya Puraskar".
