Theater Teaches That We Are Just A Part Of Other People's Lives
Arun Shankarrao Sarnaik (4 October 1935 – 21 June 1984) was an Indian actor and singer from Kolhapur, Maharashtra. He was the son of the famous sangeet natak actor and singer “Maharashtra kokil,” Pt. Shankarao Sarnaik (of the Kirana Gharana, shagird of Ustad Abdul Karim Khan Saheb of Miraj), and first cousin of the famous classical singer “Pandit Nivruttibua Sarnaik” from the Jaipur Atrauli Gharana (4 July 1912 – 16 February 1994). Arun Sarnaik took tabla lessons from Nivruttibuva Sarnaik, who was an expert tabla player himself.
Arun Sarnaik
Career
Arun Sarnaik completed his graduation from Ruia College in Mumbai. After graduation, he did some work in the engineering factory at Ichalkaranji. He entered the acting profession in 1956 as a stage actor in the Marathi play Bhatala Dili Osri by Mo. Ga. Rangnekar. In 1961 he made his movie debut with Shahir Parshuram made by Anant Mane. Later, he acted in few films like “Vardakshina” by Dinkar D Patil and “Vithu maza lekurwala” by Datta Dharmadhikari. He subsequently had lead roles in many Marathi movies starting in the black-and-white film era, and colour. His song “Pratham tuj pahta” in the Marathi film Mumbaicha Jawai became popular.
Sarnaik had a musical background from his father and uncle. Arun Sarnaik was also an accomplished Tabla and Harmonium player. He also was very active with the Anandagram Charitable institution. Bal Thackeray was a great fan of Sarnaik’s tabla-playing skills. His role of Chief Minister in the movie Sinhasan (1979) which was directed by Jabbar Patel was a milestone for the Marathi film industry.
Years Of Experience
Death
Arun Sarnaik died in a road accident on 21 June 1984 along with his wife and his son while he was going from Kolhapur to Pune. He was heading to Pune for first day of his shooting of the movie Pandharichi Vaari in which he was cast for the lead role. After his sudden death the movie was then completed by offering the lead role to other artist.
