The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of noted playwright Shri Vijay Tendulkar. In his condolence message the Prime Minister described Shri Tendulkar as one of the great architects of modem Marathi theatre and inspired modernism and social realism in Indian theatre in all languages.

The Prime Minister said Shri Tendulkar leaves behind an extremely rich repertoire of highly acclaimed plays, essays and books which will continue to inspire generations of scholars, playwrights and literary personalities in India and abroad. His strong espousal of women's empowerment and the empowerment of the downtrodden has shaped public consciousness in post independence India.

The nation honoured him with a Padma Bhushan and several other Awards. However, the people honoured him by continuing to turn up in large numbers to witness the staging of his plays. His three major plays Shantata! Court Chalu Ahe, Ghashiram Kotwal and Sakharam Binder are powerful commentaries that continue to move our people even today.

The Prime Minister conveyed his sincere condolences to Shri Tendulkar's family and to millions of his admirers around the world.