Swargandharva Sudhir Phadke

It is a 2024 Indian Marathi language musical biographical film based on Marathi music director & singer Sudhir Phadke. Directed by Yogesh Despande & produced by ReDefine Productions.

It features Sunil Barve, Adish Vaidya, Sharad Ponkshe, Mrunmayee Deshpande, Sagar Bhimkar with others.

Affectionately known as ‘Babuji’, Sudhir Phadke holds a special place in the hearts of Maharashtra. He is a household name with his ‘Geet Ramayan’ penned by G.D. Madgulkar & sung by Sudhir Phadke.

Lord Ram being our heartthrob, the blood that flows in our veins…’Geet Ramayan’ holds a unique value. The celebration of ‘Ram Navami’ is incomplete without the songs.

The film depicts his musical prowess & also the arduous journey behind his iconic songs. Yogesh Deshpande has blended the songs with his life events superbly.

Released on 1 May 2024, celebrated as ‘Maharashtra Din’ again holds a special meaning. Deshpande has done an excellent job. It is an ode to his idol. An idol that is worshiped & held in reverence forever.

His wife, Lalita & son Shridhar, both singers have contributed to his journey. Those who leave their hometown & come to Mumbai, have an uphill task. Not everyone is blessed with a godfather.

Sunil Barve & Adish Vaidya ( his younger self ) have assayed the pivotal role. Babuji in his teens & in his old age, both have brought out his mannerisms without getting carried away.

Sunil Barve has worked with Mrunmayee Deshpande earlier in a Marathi serial, as Janaki she was loved by all. Their chemistry , if I may venture to say the word, on screen is so natural. After so many years , the couple senses the needs of the other. A look, a glance is enough.

Completing his lifelong dream to make a film on the life of Savarkar, he died a satisfied man. ‘Veer Savarkar’ was released in 2001 & he died in July 2002, at the age of 83.

I loved every bit of it. Over whelmed by nostalgia, I permitted myself to cry in buckets. We have grown loving his songs, enjoying his songs. His songs are all we have to cling to , now. It is an excellent film.

Today we lost another gem, Arun Date. Born on 4 May 1934, he died on 6 May 2024 at the age of 84. ‘Shukratara’ is no more.

A great loss to the musical world.