Veteran actor Pradeep Velankar's book 'Manapasun' released at Mumbai ceremony

Veteran actor Pradeep Velankar, who has won a place in audiences' hearts through his acting, will now speak to readers through the pen. His book 'Manapasun' was released at Master Dinanath Mangeshkar Natyagriha in Mumbai on Sunday, November 1, to great enthusiasm. The book offers a glimpse of his experiences, memories and way of looking at life.

The book is published by Granthali. Its cover was designed by Meera Velankar, an actor, director and advertising professional, using her own sense of design. The ceremony, held in the presence of stalwarts of literature, theatre and cinema, reflected Velankar's writing journey and the affection people have for him. Moved by everyone's love, Velankar spoke from the heart and said the moment was as joyful for him as it was emotional.

Velankar said, "Today is not a day for speaking, but for feeling. There is joy today, but there is also a weight on the heart. I fully understand that 'writer' is a very big word of a high order. I am humbly aware that I am still far from that literary height. I have made an honest attempt in 'Manapasun' to record what I have experienced since childhood."

He added, "I have made an honest attempt to put the experiences of my life into words. I am confident that you too will embrace these experiences of mine with the same 'manapasun' warmth. The response I get from you will surely bring me joy and contentment." Thanking the guests, he said, "Everyone present here today has come out of love for me. The worth of your love is truly priceless to me. You came specially to wish me well and share in my happiness, and I am grateful to all of you from the heart."

His wife, Rajani Velankar, said, "We ran our home and family with complete honesty and responsibility. Having watched his journey closely as a life partner and fellow artiste, this book written by him gives me special joy. I am proud that he has given words to the experiences of his life. I will certainly read this book, and after reading it I will certainly tell him my opinion."

Their daughter Gauri expressed pride in her father's outlook on life and his rich life journey. She said, "Our father may not have got everything he wanted in life, but he has given life his all. We are deeply proud of this journey of his and the values he has held dear."

Rajani Velankar was joined on the occasion by daughters Gauri, Meera and Madhura, and the grandchildren also attended. With the whole family present, the ceremony had a homely warmth and a happy atmosphere. His fellow artistes present recalled the work they had done with him. They spoke of Velankar's affable nature, his dedication to work, his close bonds with co-artistes and some special anecdotes from time spent together. These recollections brought out many facets of his personality.

Selected excerpts from the book were read out with feeling by actors Subodh Bhave, Sumeet Raghavan and Umesh Kamat. The release was performed by veteran actors Suhas Joshi, Vandana Gupte, Ila Bhate, Ujjwala Jog and Rajani Velankar. Archana Gore, Mandar Apte and Prajakta Ranade added colour to the event with their melodious singing. Dr Samira Gujar compered the programme.