From the heart of Thane, veteran writer, editor, and children’s playwright Ramnath Tharawal emerged as a prominent personality in Maharashtra’s cultural landscape. A proud citizen of our city, he devoted his entire life to the world of children’s theatre. Known as the “Bhishmacharya of Maharashtra’s children’s theatre,” his tireless and selfless work not only shaped generations of young minds but also brought enduring honour to Thane’s artistic spirit.
Born on November 20, 1951, in Konkan, he lived with his uncle in Abaloli for early schooling while his parents stayed in Mumbai. There, he developed a love for folk arts like Naman and Dashavatar, joined village plays, and showed talent in crafts and academics. Later, he moved to Mumbai, studied at Maratha High School in Girgaon, and passed matric in 1970. He actively participated in school and social events, especially theatre. During this time, he met Rekha Sabnis and joined her theatre group.
Ramnath got his first break in children's theatre with help from Sulabha Deshpande, whom he credits for much of his artistic journey. Deshpande gave children’s theatre a vital place in Marathi drama, believing it should inspire imagination and thinking, not just entertain. Ramnath carried this vision forward. He worked with noted artists like Vandana Gupte and Laxmikant Berde and learned experimental theatre under Vijaya Mehta.
After matriculation, Ramnath joined J.J. School of Arts, where he studied under Damu Kenkre and earned his degree in 1974. This formal training gave his artistic vision a strong and thoughtful foundation. Childhood influences, Mumbai's theatre exposure, and J.J.'s education deeply enriched his creative journey.
Soon after, he got a chance to design promotional material for Govind Nihalani's film Aakrosh—his first step into cinema.
However, his true passion lay in children's theatre. In 1980, he began working at Mumbai's Bal Bhavan, a center focused on nurturing children’s creativity through training in various art forms. Ramnath worked there until 1990, making a lasting impact. The center hosted competitions in theatre, dance, music, and acting, providing thousands of children with platforms to grow.
One of his most popular initiatives was the inter-school play reading competitions, which fostered discipline, teamwork, and self-awareness among children. His decade at Bal Bhavan remains a significant and inspiring chapter in its history.
In 1990, Ramnath Tharwal entered a new phase when actor Shashi Kapoor invited him to join Prithvi Theatre. This marked a major milestone in his artistic journey. He worked there for 17 years, until 2007, focusing on children's theatre and nurturing young talent. During this time, his work gained national recognition.
At Prithvi, Tharwal had the space to express his creativity fully and was honored for his contributions. He held deep respect for Shashi Kapoor, especially admiring his professionalism and warmth toward artists. Tharwal also connected with icons like Jaya Bachchan, Gulzar, M.F. Husain, Ramesh Sippy, and Padmini Kolhapure, all of whom appreciated his work.
Alongside, he continued his theatre work with groups like Abhivyakti, Aavishkar, Roopvedh, and Theatre Unit. He founded ‘Kalaghar’ and led it for 41 years. Its launch was graced by writer Vijay Tendulkar and cultural director Kamalakar Sontakke.
In 1995, he started his own acting workshop in Thane, which he continues to run even in his 70s. Under his guidance, many prominent actors like Vidya Balan, Sumit Raghavan, Gautami Kapoor, Umesh Kamat, Kishori Shahane, and others emerged.
Ramnath Tharwal's theatre work reflects his deep dedication, sensitivity, and creativity. For over 60 years, he contributed consistently to drama, especially children's theatre. His writing connects directly with young minds, as he understands their language and emotions.
He directed over 50 plays and wrote numerous stories, poems, skits, and research articles. His notable works include Shaadi Ek Gadhe Ki, Samrajya, Khajinyachi Vihir, Call Me Captain Robert, Aakrosh, Musafir Ho Yaaro, Kurup Badkachi Goshta, and more. He contributed significantly to both Marathi and Hindi children's literature, and also held workshops in Chicago and Seattle.
Besides writing, he’s an accomplished editor and publisher. For 10 years, he edited Dhishom Dhishom, a magazine aimed at positively shaping young minds. He also directed radio and TV programs, with Mukavatevala winning a special award.
Tharwal received the Natydarpan Award, was honored by the Kokanastha Vaishya community, and awarded a state prize for his children’s theatre work by CM Vilasrao Deshmukh. His play Khajinyachi Vihir won four state awards, and his magazine received 12. Institutions like Kalashram and Bhonsala Military School also honored him.
Tharwal is more than a playwright—he's a true guide to children's minds. His values, emotions, and creativity have shaped generations. His literature inspires thought and understanding among children and has enriched Marathi children's literature. Even in his 70s, he continues his mission.
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