Krishnarao Ganpatrao Sable, popularly known asShahir Sable (3 September 1923 – 20 March 2015), was aMarathi language folk artist fromMaharashtra, India.[1] He was an accomplished singer, playwright, performer and folk theatre (Loknatya) producer & director.[2][3] He was awarded withPadma Shri – India's fourth highest civilian honour, in 1998 for his contribution in the field of arts.
Shahir Sable was born in a small village calledPasarni, in theWai taluka of districtSatara to Ganpatrao Sable in 1923.[4] He learned to play the flute in childhood. After finishing his primary schooling in Pasarni, he moved to his maternal uncle's place inAmalner,Jalgaon, where he studied till 7th grade and soon left school. At Amalner, he became close toSane Guruji and spent time with Sane Guruji during the freedom struggle. With his shahiri, he started contributing to the struggle. He also started "Jagruti Shahir Mandal" during that time.
Maharashtrachi Lokadhara (Folk dances of Maharashtra) – Maharashtrachi Lokadhara had performed all over India as a renowned troupe formed by Shahir Sable showcasing all native dance forms of Maharashtra.[5] He gave rebirth to some of the old traditions of folk like Lavani, Balyanruttya, Kolinruttya, Gondhalinruttya, Manglagaur, Vaghyamurali, Vasudeo, Dhangar etc.[6]
Andhala Daltay – Shahir Sable staged this farcical play highlighting the sorry plight of the Marathi speaking residents ofMumbai. The lore has it that the play was so impactful that it led to the formation of theShivsena, a political party safeguarding the rights of the native Marathi populace.[7][8]
Jai Jai Maharashtra Majha, originally sung by Shahir Sable, is widely used and played in the official functions ofMaharashtra Government. It was declared as the official song of Maharashtra state in 2023.
Maharashtrachi Lokadhara was later adapted into TV format by his grandson Kedar Shinde. The show aired onZee Marathi.
Many of the songs composed by him (includingJai Jai Maharashtra Majha, Are Krishna Are Kanha, Malharavaari) were later adapted by many contemporary artists for Marathi films.
A biographical film,Maharashtra Shahir, based on his life and times was released on 28 April 2023. It is directed by his grandson and noted film director, Kedar Shinde. The character of Shahir Sable is portrayed byAnkush Chaudhari. The film also stars his great-grand daughter, Sana Kedar Shinde, in the role of Bhanumati Sable.
