In a riveting ceremony held at the Shiva Samarth Vidyalaya auditorium in Thane, the unveiling of ‘Sahyadri Parikrama,’ authored by esteemed historian Sadashiv Tetvilkar and published by Srikripa Publications, marked a momentous occasion in the realm of historical literature. The book launch witnessed a congregation of eminent personalities, including mountaineer Pradeep Kelkar, Senior Editor Milind Ballal, and President of Anand Vishwa Gurukul Education Institute, Vilas Thuse.
The Sahyadri range, shrouded in an impenetrable cover, has long preserved its pristine environment, fostering an abundance of natural wealth. Tetvilkar’s narrative delves into the invaluable contribution of the hill tribes to Chhatrapati Shivraya’s vision of Swarajya, evoking a sense of admiration and reverence for the Sahyadri among enthusiasts like entrepreneur Ravindra Prabhudesai.
Prabhudesai lauded Tetvilkar’s prolific penmanship, highlighting the author’s 13 books that offer unique insights into overlooked facets of history. Mountaineer Kelkar commended Tetvilkar’s journey from humble beginnings to extraordinary accomplishments, citing ‘Sahyadri Parikrama’ as a beacon of guidance for wanderers, emphasizing the importance of learning from nature’s teachings.
Senior Editor Milind Ballal commended Tetvilkar’s simplistic yet profound writing style, urging for the preservation of local history. The need for a museum in Thane to commemorate historical narratives was also emphasized, underscoring the responsibility of parents to acquaint future generations with their heritage.
President Vilas Thuse reminisced about Tetvilkar’s enduring friendship and underscored his qualities of simplicity and tolerance. Tetvilkar himself recounted the arduous Sahyadri Parikrama of 1983, paying homage to the unwavering support of fellow adventurers and the hospitality of the Sahyadri’s denizens.
Seema Tetwilkar-Konde, daughter of Sadashiv Tetwilkar, fondly recalled her father’s influence, attributing her positive outlook to his simple rituals and adventuresome spirit. The ceremony, moderated by Mahendra Konde, saw Tetvilkar and his companions felicitated for their monumental endeavor, as attendees were transported through time to the rugged landscapes and rich history of the Sahyadri.
‘Sahyadri Parikrama’ promises to be a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring beauty of nature, inviting readers on a journey of discovery through the heart of the Sahyadri.
