Eminent Marathi writer RC Dhere known for his exhaustive research in Bhakti tradition of Maharashtra and folk literature. He passed away following prolonged illness at 86.
- Dhere, a recipient of the Sahitya Academy Award in 1987 for his book “Sri Vitthal- A Mahasamanvayak.” (Lord Vitthal-A Leading Mahasamvayak)
- Tracing the roots of Maharashtra’s folk traditions and literature, he write on eminent saints who influenced Maharashtrian ethos
- Other notable works by the same author include:
- Dakshinecha Lokdev Khandoba
- History of Nath Sampraday
- Sri Venkateshawara
- Marathi is 9th in the list of most spoken languages in the world with the fourth highest number of native speakers in India
