Gangadhar Vithoba Pantawane (28 June 1937 – 27 March 2018) was a prominent Indian Marathi writer, literary critic, and a committed follower of B. R. Ambedkar, the visionary behind the Indian Constitution. Hailing from Maharashtra, he played a pivotal role in championing the rights and literature of the Dalit community. His influence on the Dalit literary movement in Maharashtra was profound, and he was a trailblazer in this regard.

In 2008, Pantawane achieved the honor of being elected as the president of the inaugural Marathi Vishwa Sahitya Sammelan (World Marathi Literature Conference) held in the United States. His groundbreaking journal, “Asmitadarsh,” served as a source of inspiration for countless Dalit writers and intellectuals, providing a platform for their voices to be heard and their concerns addressed.

In recognition of his significant contributions to literature and social change, Gangadhar Vithoba Pantawane received the prestigious Padma Shri award from the Government of India in 2018, a fitting acknowledgment of his enduring legacy in the realms of literature and social reform.

Some of his notable books include:

1. “Pratibimb”: This is one of Pantawane’s acclaimed novels, known for its exploration of human relationships and societal norms.
2. “Kalokhachya Lagnala”: Another significant novel by Pantawane, it delves into various aspects of rural life and culture in Maharashtra.
3. “Kumudini”: This is a collection of his short stories, celebrated for their simplicity and deep themes, often portraying rural life.
4. “Asmitadarsh”: While not a traditional book, Pantawane’s journal “Asmitadarsh” played a crucial role in the Dalit literary movement, galvanizing generations of Dalit writers and thinkers.
5. Various Essays: Pantawane also wrote numerous essays on topics such as literature, folklore, and social issues.

These are some of the notable works by Gangadhar Pantawane, and his literary contributions have left a lasting impact on Marathi literature and the Dalit literary movement in Maharashtra.