The untimely passing of Yashwanth Sardeshpande at the age of 60 has left a huge void in the world of theatre and cinema. Known for his eloquence—especially in the Northern Karnataka dialect, always delivered with a touch of comedy—Sardeshpande was a multifaceted artist who left a lasting impact on the Kannada cultural landscape.
He is survived by his talented actress wife Malathi and their daughter.
Born in Ukkali, Basavanabagewadi of Vijayapura district, Yashwanth completed his early education in Hubballi. He initially joined Kirloskar Company and later worked at KSRTC. However, his passion for theatre led him to Ninasam in Heggodu, the renowned cultural institution founded by Magsaysay Award winner K.V. Subbanna.
Yashwanth also contributed significantly to Doordarshan and All India Radio, where he created a number of memorable programs. During his tenure as a program officer at the South Central Zone Cultural Centre in Nagpur, he met Malathi, who later became his wife in 1991.
His play “All the Best”, which was later adapted into Marathi, brought him closer to the theatre community. Other popular plays penned and directed by him include “Sahi Re Sahi”, “Rashi Chakra”, and “Dil Maange More”.
Sardeshpande’s wit and comic timing made him a beloved figure in Kannada cinema as well. He appeared in “Rama Shama Bhama”, directed by Ramesh Aravind and starring the legendary Kamal Haasan. He also wrote dialogues for the film in the Northern Karnataka dialect.
Despite his talent, not all of his cinematic ventures found commercial success. His directorial project “Ideya Madyaara”, which he also produced, did not meet box office expectations. Another project, “Yarig Idli… Pure Veg”, produced under Gurubala Enterprises, also left him disappointed, although it was expected to be another uproarious comedy, with story, screenplay, and dialogues all penned by him.
In addition to acting and directing, Yashwanth was a celebrated columnist, novelist, and humorist, known for his rip-roaring comedy sketches and sharp observations.
His stage works, such as “Sahi Re Sahi”, “All the Best”, “Rashichakra”, “Olave Jeevana Shakshatkara”, “Neenanadre Naaneenena”, and “Hingadre”, were widely appreciated. He also directed a Marathi film titled “On Duty Chauvis Taas” (On Duty 24 Hours).
One of his most unique contributions was the children’s film “Very Good 10/10”, a project with several notable features: Of the 160 cast members, 124 were children. Bollywood actress Juhi Chawla sang a song and appeared in a special role. The inspirational song “Kalisu Guruve Kalisu…”, based on a quote by Abraham Lincoln, was brought to life in Kannada by music director V. Manohar and translated by Rangayana S. Ramanath.
This film was screened at the 2017 International Children’s Film Festival in Hyderabad, the San Mauro Festival in Italy, the BRICS Film Festival in Moscow, and in Doha (2018). It has also reached audiences in Karnataka, the United States, Australia, and England.
Yashwanth Sardeshpande will be remembered as a brilliant mind, a warm performer, and a true champion of the arts. His legacy—spanning stage, screen, and literature—will continue to inspire generations to come.