NOTED historian and author Babasaheb Purandare, known for his works on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, on Saturday said he drew inspiration from the Maratha king’s spirit of nation-building. Balwant Moreshwar Purandare aka Babasaheb, who turned 100 on July 29, was felicitated at a function here on Saturday attended by veteran singer Asha Bhosale, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray, BJP leader Ashish Shelar and others.

 

Known for his research and works on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Purandare, a Padma Vibhushan-awardee, shared various memories during the programme. “I don’t worship Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj but he is a permanent part of my life. As I eat or sleep.....Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is a part of my living. Maharaj is close to young people due to his courage but his spirit of nation-building inspires me. I try to be consistent with him,” he said.