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व्यक्ती आणि वल्ली [Vyakti Aani Valli]
Vyakti Aani Vyalli is a collection of character sketches by Purushottam Laxman Deshpande, the popular Marathi writer. Drawing from real-life characters and incidents, these sketches are as varied as people can be and quite interesting.
The stories in Vyakti Aani Vyalli were written over a period of more than 20 years, from 1944 to 1968. Of the 20 stories in the book, the one about Bhaiyya Nagpurkar was the earliest one written by the author. The lead character is a Brahmin by birth, but he is often mistaken for a Muslim for various reasons. He is wealthy man with a bad reputation, but he admires Gandhiji, the Father of Nation. He even avoids drinking alcohol on the days when Mahatma is fasting.
There are a lot of other varied sketches in this book. Narayan helps in arranging marriages and also ensures that the functions go smoothly. The author reveals an interesting side of Narayan.
There is Parophari Gampu who would go out of the way to help people, and then there is the washer-man Namu Parit. The washer-man breaks buttons and uses his customers clothes on himself, and never delivers on time. He has every other evil habit imaginable but has no idea that the things he do are wrong.
There is also a school boy named Sakharam Gatne, who speaks classical Marathi and is addicted to books. Lakhu Risbud, who is another interesting character, is a disillusioned writer who wanted to change the world with his pen, but ends up working as a sub-editor in some obscure magazine.
The list goes on, with a fine variety of characters reflecting the ironies of life. Vyakti Aani Vyalli earned the writer a Sahitya Akademi Award.
The stories in Vyakti Aani Vyalli were written over a period of more than 20 years, from 1944 to 1968. Of the 20 stories in the book, the one about Bhaiyya Nagpurkar was the earliest one written by the author. The lead character is a Brahmin by birth, but he is often mistaken for a Muslim for various reasons. He is wealthy man with a bad reputation, but he admires Gandhiji, the Father of Nation. He even avoids drinking alcohol on the days when Mahatma is fasting.
There are a lot of other varied sketches in this book. Narayan helps in arranging marriages and also ensures that the functions go smoothly. The author reveals an interesting side of Narayan.
There is Parophari Gampu who would go out of the way to help people, and then there is the washer-man Namu Parit. The washer-man breaks buttons and uses his customers clothes on himself, and never delivers on time. He has every other evil habit imaginable but has no idea that the things he do are wrong.
There is also a school boy named Sakharam Gatne, who speaks classical Marathi and is addicted to books. Lakhu Risbud, who is another interesting character, is a disillusioned writer who wanted to change the world with his pen, but ends up working as a sub-editor in some obscure magazine.
The list goes on, with a fine variety of characters reflecting the ironies of life. Vyakti Aani Vyalli earned the writer a Sahitya Akademi Award.
202 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1966
1224 people are currently reading
18163 people want to read
About the author
P.L. Deshpande
91 books1,059 followersपुरुषोत्तम लक्ष्मण [पु. ल.] देशपांडे हे लोकप्रिय मराठी लेखक, नाटककार, नट, कथाकार व पटकथाकार, दिग्दर्शक आणि संगीत दिग्दर्शक होते. त्यांना महाराष्ट्राचे लाडके व्यक्तिमत्त्व असे म्हटले जायचे. त्यांच्या आद्याक्षरांवरून महाराष्ट्रात ते प्रेमाने पु. ल. म्हणून ओळखले जातात. लेखक आणि कवी वामन मंगेश दुभाषी ऊर्फ ऋग्वेदी हे पु.ल.देशपांड्यांचे आजोबा होते तर आणि सतीश दुभाषी हे मामेभाऊ आहेत.
P. L. Deshpande was one of the legends in marathi literature. Probably the most read, most quoted and most loved author of maharashtra
The writings though mostly known for its sublime comic nature,include a vast range of plays,caricatures,essays, travelogues and much more
Lovingly called 'Pula' by all the fans.
P. L. Deshpande was one of the legends in marathi literature. Probably the most read, most quoted and most loved author of maharashtra
The writings though mostly known for its sublime comic nature,include a vast range of plays,caricatures,essays, travelogues and much more
Lovingly called 'Pula' by all the fans.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
August 29, 2018
Finally finished this book and I must say PuLa is सुख 😍 वाचताना जी मज्जा आणि 'comfort level' वाटते ती काही वेगळीच आहे. घरी गेल्यासारखं वाटतं. आणि आपली मराठी भाषा किती समृद्ध आहे 😍 पुलं मराठी च्या प्रेमात अजून पाडतात. मी एकदम जड विषयाचं पुस्तक संपवलं होतं आणि अश्या सुंदर पुस्तकाने मूड एकदम मस्त केला! मराठी वाचण्यात काही वेगळंच सुख आहे 😍
June 23, 2015
Riveting, to say the least ! This man, P.L. Deshpande, just exemplifies how a book is to be written.
The way he sketches each and every character is magical and life-infusing to the words he wrote. His impeccable way of adding the hues to the persona of the character by sketching the intricate personality details is awe-inspiring yet never for once does the book or the story turns dull and monotonous.
Each character, each story, each word lives up to its meaning and adds meaning to our lives.. albeit effortlessly and tickling the funny bone nonchalantly ! Must, must read !
The way he sketches each and every character is magical and life-infusing to the words he wrote. His impeccable way of adding the hues to the persona of the character by sketching the intricate personality details is awe-inspiring yet never for once does the book or the story turns dull and monotonous.
Each character, each story, each word lives up to its meaning and adds meaning to our lives.. albeit effortlessly and tickling the funny bone nonchalantly ! Must, must read !
May 23, 2019
I loved this book! It's not only funny but you get to learn a lot from his books. It's a funny take on each character's life. Too good!
April 24, 2016
अतरंगी आणि विक्षिप्त माणसे प्रत्येकाच्याच जीवनात येतात पण त्यांना अजरामर करू शकणारे पु.ल. एकच. नारायण, सखाराम गटणे आणि अंतू बर्वा हि लोकं नक्कीच तुम्हाला कुणाचीतरी आठवण करून देतील...
October 14, 2022
P. L. Deshpande is a well known name in Maharashtra. His works were famous for being hilarious and sarcastic and also for having double meaning i.e. there would mostly be two meanings to the things he said.
In Vyakti ani Valli, he describes several characters each is unique in their own ways and yet they are life like. They feel so real that one can start seeing similarities between the characters and real life person they know.
Vyakti Ani Valli stories were written over more than 20 years, from 1944 to 1968 and even then we might find the people with same qualities around us.
Few of characters which I liked reading about
1. Narayan
Narayan is a person who is related to everyone and yet is a non entity . He is the omniscient, omnipresent being in the marriage hall. He is nothing in normal life, but he takes care that any marriage preparation he is part of would go without any incident when remaining completely in the background.
2. Gampu
Gampu is known as Paropakari Gampu, who is born to help others. He will do stuff for others even when he wasn't really supposed to do it.
3. Bapu Kane
Bapu Kane is born to be a secretary of every organization. For him every organisation matters. He doesn't distinguish between an organization that works with funeral arrangements or baby shower.
4. Sakharam Gatne
Sakharam Gatne is one of the famous sketches in the book. Gatne is a shy schoolboy who will read books often and speak in Perfect & pure form of Marathi. So pure that even the writer himself is annoyed and surprised with him. He was so devoted to it that when the writer gave him the message, 'Be loyal to literature' along with his signature, he was so faithful to literature that he refused to marry.
5. Namu Parit
Namu Parit is a laundryman. He breaks buttons and never gets his work done on time. His customers always complain of him being late. He feels entitled while mostly drunk and is entirely unaware that anything he does is wrong.
6. Babdu
Babdu is kind of leader in school. He is sent to jail on false charges and returns to the writer's life for a day as a successful smuggler. He is yet grateful and did not forget the sweet writer's mom once gave him or his English teacher who met him in jail.
7. Lakhu Risbud
Lakhu Risbud is an embittered writer. Lakhu wanted to change the world with his writing but ended up in an assistant-editorship in some 2nd rate magazine.
8. Chitale Master (teacher)
The representative of all the teachers who are dedicated to their profession, Chitale Master. He loved every student of his without talking nicely to them. He helped kids learn and devoted whole his life for the same purpose of teaching.
9. Peston uncle
Peston uncle is the flawless Parsi gentleman of yore. He is kind and loving so beloved by everyone around him.
10. Nanda Pradhan
Nanda Pradhan's character is cursed. calamity might as well be his other name. Nothing good ever happens with him. His mom ran away with their neighbor, and dad died when he was young. His wife was a jew in Germany while he was there during the 2nd world war. His love was a daughter of an embittered old man, who asked her to select between Nanda and feed her 3 small brothers. Guess who she selected? Due to his sufferings one after the other, He was completely detached from life.
11. Natha Kamat
Natha Kamat is the eternal lover boy. He is the first one to know the complete details of any new girl in Mumbai.
12. Bhaiyya Nagpurkar
Bhaiyya Nagpurkar is the criminal boy in the college. This was the first character sketch written by P. L. Deshpande. Bhaiyya is born with a silver spoon in his mouth. He loves music, drinks, and everything that comes with it. Even though He is a brahmin by birth but is often mistaken for a Muslim because of his mannerism. Despite that he is big fan of Mahatma Gandhi and has Nehru's books on his shelves.
13. Hari tatya
What Hari Tatya used to do for living, nobody has figured out. He talks about history like he personally knew shivaji maharaj. He would make the stories so interesting though that those who listened him enjoyed them dearly.
14. Anna wadgaonkar
Anna wadgaonkar was a Sanskrit teacher. He was favorite of everyone. He would use my dear fellows to address his Students. He didn't only teach kids sanskrit but life too.
15. Antu Barva
Antu Barva and his followers had kind of a slang, if all the words they used were collected, a new language would be the result. He didn't care for anything. Not life not death. Not even music. He was above everything.
There are total 20 characters. It shows people in all their glories and their flaws. A must read whether or not you are P.L. fan.
In Vyakti ani Valli, he describes several characters each is unique in their own ways and yet they are life like. They feel so real that one can start seeing similarities between the characters and real life person they know.
Vyakti Ani Valli stories were written over more than 20 years, from 1944 to 1968 and even then we might find the people with same qualities around us.
Few of characters which I liked reading about
1. Narayan
Narayan is a person who is related to everyone and yet is a non entity . He is the omniscient, omnipresent being in the marriage hall. He is nothing in normal life, but he takes care that any marriage preparation he is part of would go without any incident when remaining completely in the background.
2. Gampu
Gampu is known as Paropakari Gampu, who is born to help others. He will do stuff for others even when he wasn't really supposed to do it.
3. Bapu Kane
Bapu Kane is born to be a secretary of every organization. For him every organisation matters. He doesn't distinguish between an organization that works with funeral arrangements or baby shower.
4. Sakharam Gatne
Sakharam Gatne is one of the famous sketches in the book. Gatne is a shy schoolboy who will read books often and speak in Perfect & pure form of Marathi. So pure that even the writer himself is annoyed and surprised with him. He was so devoted to it that when the writer gave him the message, 'Be loyal to literature' along with his signature, he was so faithful to literature that he refused to marry.
5. Namu Parit
Namu Parit is a laundryman. He breaks buttons and never gets his work done on time. His customers always complain of him being late. He feels entitled while mostly drunk and is entirely unaware that anything he does is wrong.
6. Babdu
Babdu is kind of leader in school. He is sent to jail on false charges and returns to the writer's life for a day as a successful smuggler. He is yet grateful and did not forget the sweet writer's mom once gave him or his English teacher who met him in jail.
7. Lakhu Risbud
Lakhu Risbud is an embittered writer. Lakhu wanted to change the world with his writing but ended up in an assistant-editorship in some 2nd rate magazine.
8. Chitale Master (teacher)
The representative of all the teachers who are dedicated to their profession, Chitale Master. He loved every student of his without talking nicely to them. He helped kids learn and devoted whole his life for the same purpose of teaching.
9. Peston uncle
Peston uncle is the flawless Parsi gentleman of yore. He is kind and loving so beloved by everyone around him.
10. Nanda Pradhan
Nanda Pradhan's character is cursed. calamity might as well be his other name. Nothing good ever happens with him. His mom ran away with their neighbor, and dad died when he was young. His wife was a jew in Germany while he was there during the 2nd world war. His love was a daughter of an embittered old man, who asked her to select between Nanda and feed her 3 small brothers. Guess who she selected? Due to his sufferings one after the other, He was completely detached from life.
11. Natha Kamat
Natha Kamat is the eternal lover boy. He is the first one to know the complete details of any new girl in Mumbai.
12. Bhaiyya Nagpurkar
Bhaiyya Nagpurkar is the criminal boy in the college. This was the first character sketch written by P. L. Deshpande. Bhaiyya is born with a silver spoon in his mouth. He loves music, drinks, and everything that comes with it. Even though He is a brahmin by birth but is often mistaken for a Muslim because of his mannerism. Despite that he is big fan of Mahatma Gandhi and has Nehru's books on his shelves.
13. Hari tatya
What Hari Tatya used to do for living, nobody has figured out. He talks about history like he personally knew shivaji maharaj. He would make the stories so interesting though that those who listened him enjoyed them dearly.
14. Anna wadgaonkar
Anna wadgaonkar was a Sanskrit teacher. He was favorite of everyone. He would use my dear fellows to address his Students. He didn't only teach kids sanskrit but life too.
15. Antu Barva
Antu Barva and his followers had kind of a slang, if all the words they used were collected, a new language would be the result. He didn't care for anything. Not life not death. Not even music. He was above everything.
There are total 20 characters. It shows people in all their glories and their flaws. A must read whether or not you are P.L. fan.
March 14, 2021
पु. ल. आणि त्यांचे सुप्रसिद्ध साहित्य " व्यक्ती आणि वल्ली ", याबद्दल माझ्या सारख्या किरकोळ वाचकाने आपले मत व्यक्त करणे म्हणजे अगदी त्यांनीच या पुस्तकात म्हटल्याप्रमाणे म्हणजे - " नळाच्या आशीर्वादाने पाऊस पडण्यासारखे " आहे. पु. लं. नी या पुस्तकामध्ये २० वेगवेगळ्या पात्रांबद्दल कथानकं मजेशीर आणि काही ठिकाणी हळूच गंभीर अशा स्वरूपात लिहिली आहेत की जणू ते स्वतः त्यांना प्रत्यक्ष भेटले असावेत. पु. लं. ची वेगवेगळ्या प्रसंगांची आणि त्या प्रसंगी एखाद्या व्यक्तीचे हावभाव विनोदी उपमा देऊन टिपण्याची कलात्मकता च त्यांना महाराष्ट्राचे किंबहुना भारताचे महान अष्टपैलू साहित्यिकांपैकी एक बनवते. उदाहरणार्थ, "इंदू वेलवांकरचा म्हातारा बाप तेल न लावलेला लोखंडी झोपाळा जसा किरकिरतो तसा किरकिरला ". वाचनास अतिशय सोपे आणि मजेशीर असे "व्यक्ती आणि वल्ली" ह्यातल्या विविध व्यक्तींबद्दल वाचताना आपल्या असे लक्षात येते की अशा वेगळेच गुण असणाऱ्या व्यक्ती आपल्या आजूबाजला आहे आणि कधी कधी आपण ही तसे वागलो आहोत याची जाणीव ही होते.
May 28, 2020
व्यक्ती आणि वल्ली
हे पुस्तक १९६२ साली प्रकाशित झाले. लेखक पुरुषोत्तम देशपांडे यांनी २० वर्षांत हे उत्कृष्ट पुस्तक लिहिले. मी या पुस्तकाची ५ वी आवृत्ती वाचली.
लेखकाने या पुस्तकात एकूण २० पाठ लिहिले आहेत. प्रत्येक पाठात त्या व्यक्तीचा स्वभाव, भावना, वर्तन आणि लेखक आणि व्यक्तीमधले संभाषण आणि त्या व्यक्तीचा संपूर्ण जीवन प्रवास सांगितला आहे.
लेखकाने खूप सुंदर लिहिले आहे. लेखकाने खुप उत्तम रित्या पात्रे बनवली, जणु आपल्या समोर जिवंतच केली. नवशिक्या लेखकांनी पुस्तक कसे लिहायचे ते, हे पुस्तक शिकवते. एखादे पात्र कसे तयार करावे आणि कसे विकसित करावे, हे पुल कडून नक्कीच शिकण्यासारखे आहे. मला सर्व कथा आवडल्या. पण "सखाराम गटाणे" सर्वात अधिक पसंत आली.
खूप मजेदार, कधीकधी थोडे भावनिक, उत्तम पुस्तक. हे पुस्तक आॅडिओ स्वरुपात पुल च्या आवाजात YouTube वर उपलब्ध आहे. कृपया वाचा किंवा ऐका. तुम्हाला नक्कीच माझ्यासारखा चांगला अनुभव मिळेल.
हे पुस्तक १९६२ साली प्रकाशित झाले. लेखक पुरुषोत्तम देशपांडे यांनी २० वर्षांत हे उत्कृष्ट पुस्तक लिहिले. मी या पुस्तकाची ५ वी आवृत्ती वाचली.
लेखकाने या पुस्तकात एकूण २० पाठ लिहिले आहेत. प्रत्येक पाठात त्या व्यक्तीचा स्वभाव, भावना, वर्तन आणि लेखक आणि व्यक्तीमधले संभाषण आणि त्या व्यक्तीचा संपूर्ण जीवन प्रवास सांगितला आहे.
लेखकाने खूप सुंदर लिहिले आहे. लेखकाने खुप उत्तम रित्या पात्रे बनवली, जणु आपल्या समोर जिवंतच केली. नवशिक्या लेखकांनी पुस्तक कसे लिहायचे ते, हे पुस्तक शिकवते. एखादे पात्र कसे तयार करावे आणि कसे विकसित करावे, हे पुल कडून नक्कीच शिकण्यासारखे आहे. मला सर्व कथा आवडल्या. पण "सखाराम गटाणे" सर्वात अधिक पसंत आली.
खूप मजेदार, कधीकधी थोडे भावनिक, उत्तम पुस्तक. हे पुस्तक आॅडिओ स्वरुपात पुल च्या आवाजात YouTube वर उपलब्ध आहे. कृपया वाचा किंवा ऐका. तुम्हाला नक्कीच माझ्यासारखा चांगला अनुभव मिळेल.
December 29, 2024
Its a collection of all the some of the popular character descriptions of the people who have different story behind them. Many of them are on the funny side while some leaves you thinking about the hardships of the people at that time.
January 6, 2015
Vyakti ani valli is my first pu la deshpande written book. Though i have been hearing his name since my childhood days and his charisma as written seems to have captivated many minds it was this inquisition,About a marathi author so famous that led me to venturing into actually reading one. First and foremost, Bravo!!! Pu la has a writing style like no other he really takes you on a joyride that not even for one second or one word do you feel disconnected from the book and his world, the characters described within the book just seem to appear around you spinning around your mind speaking the words that you read, keeps you hooked to the core and you enjoy meeting them, getting to know them with light dashes of satire the author feels when encountering situations with them, such easy grace and finesse in his writing is what makes him stand apart from others. Pu la deshpande is truely a magician with the pen.
October 16, 2012
One of the best books that i have ever read. The character sketches that PL has created here render themselves to an outstanding level of recognition form the daily life and yet are able to distinguish themselves as extraordinary. The different stories in the book are entertaining and meaningful without preaching.
The 'musings of a common man' style of narration captivates the reader and makes it a story that you feel very much a part of as the reader. And in spite of all these characteristics, this is an extremely light read...which is wonderful.
The 'musings of a common man' style of narration captivates the reader and makes it a story that you feel very much a part of as the reader. And in spite of all these characteristics, this is an extremely light read...which is wonderful.
January 14, 2012
Superb collection of character sketches. Each character is so unique and described in a very interesting way. Some characters make u laugh, some surprise you, some put smile on your face and some wet the corners of your eyes. Antu Barva, Nanda Pradhan, Sakharam Gatne, Chitale master, Pestonkaka, Narayan are some of the best ones.
May 20, 2021
Whoever said life is boring has never know पु.लं.देशपांडे🙏
पुलंच्या या वीस व्यक्ती अन् त्यांच्या तील वल्ली म्हणजे जीवन जगताना मिळालेल्या अनुभवांचा हसता खेळता द्रुश्यपट होय.
कुठलीही व्यक्ती किंवा घटना असो त्याकडे पाहण्याचा पुलंचा द्रुष्टिकोन या जगात दुसऱ्या कुणाकडेही असु शकत नाही. पुलंना वाचण्याचे भाग्य मिळाले यातच सर्वकाही आले.🙏
पुलंच्या या वीस व्यक्ती अन् त्यांच्या तील वल्ली म्हणजे जीवन जगताना मिळालेल्या अनुभवांचा हसता खेळता द्रुश्यपट होय.
कुठलीही व्यक्ती किंवा घटना असो त्याकडे पाहण्याचा पुलंचा द्रुष्टिकोन या जगात दुसऱ्या कुणाकडेही असु शकत नाही. पुलंना वाचण्याचे भाग्य मिळाले यातच सर्वकाही आले.🙏
November 12, 2012
Could any book which is claims to be based upon observation of normal human beings be any better....!!!!!!!
I'm proud of my mother tongue because we have such great books written in Marathi ...!!!!
January 22, 2020
An observation that will astonish the reader. Pu la is always giving something special to his reader. This book is the most read book by me. All the characters gives a familiar feel that those characters roam around us all the time. Never miss this one.
March 3, 2022
Stunned by how relatable the simplicity of the lives of characters in this book are. P.L. Deshpande makes it funny and witty at the same time, and leaves enough space for a reader to make (simple) interpretations.
July 19, 2012
Characters in the book literally stand in front of you and start talking. Suddenly one starts identifying them in people that you know!
February 12, 2013
nice book...
Currently reading
September 18, 2019HIHGFGFYFUHFGDVHGFHDCHHDYCVHGDFYCTCHCTYFFYD
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2021
I dare you to read any chapter from this book without laughing out loud atleast once every couple of pages.
May 18, 2021
Do read book... Anytime... Many time
May 27, 2022
This book changes the perspective to look at people and to understand them. If given a chance, I will spend one hour with each "vyakti" in this book.
October 4, 2022
One of my favourite book. This book start once you finish it. It show you all the character in your life
April 15, 2025
n the vast landscape of Marathi literature, Purushottam Laxman Deshpande, or simply Pu La, stands as a beloved and unmatched chronicler of human nature. Among his many gems, Vyakti Ani Valli remains a timeless classic — not just for its humor and wit, but for its piercing insight into the peculiarities that make us human.
At its core, Vyakti Ani Valli ("People and Strings") is a collection of character sketches — vivid portraits of men and women Pu La either encountered in real life or imagined with uncanny believability. These are not just characters; they are living, breathing people who seem to walk straight out of the pages and sit next to you with a cup of tea, sharing their quirks, their joys, and their sorrows.
Each "vyakti" (person) is introduced with simplicity, and yet their personalities unfold with layers — through their actions, their speech, and often, their silent contradictions. There is Nanda Pradhan, the compulsive liar whose delusions are at once frustrating and hilarious. There is Antu Barva, whose rustic wisdom and biting sarcasm hide a deeply nostalgic heart. And there’s Narayan, the perpetual schoolboy who is, in some ways, the child in all of us that refuses to grow up.
Pu La’s genius lies not in mocking these characters but in embracing them. He doesn’t caricature; he celebrates. His humor is never cruel — it is affectionate, empathetic, and steeped in a deep understanding of the human condition. Even the most eccentric characters are never reduced to a joke; instead, they are remembered with the kind of fondness we reserve for a slightly odd but dearly loved uncle.
What sets this collection apart is its universal relatability. While the language and setting are uniquely Marathi, the emotional truths are global. Anyone who has grown up in a closely-knit community — be it in Mumbai, Madurai, or Milan — will recognize these figures: the know-it-all, the dreamer, the miser, the eternal optimist.
The prose is sparkling, infused with Pu La’s trademark wit and rhythm. Reading Vyakti Ani Valli is like attending a solo performance where the storyteller dons a hundred masks with effortless flair, leaving the reader laughing, tearing up, and above all, thinking.
At its core, Vyakti Ani Valli ("People and Strings") is a collection of character sketches — vivid portraits of men and women Pu La either encountered in real life or imagined with uncanny believability. These are not just characters; they are living, breathing people who seem to walk straight out of the pages and sit next to you with a cup of tea, sharing their quirks, their joys, and their sorrows.
Each "vyakti" (person) is introduced with simplicity, and yet their personalities unfold with layers — through their actions, their speech, and often, their silent contradictions. There is Nanda Pradhan, the compulsive liar whose delusions are at once frustrating and hilarious. There is Antu Barva, whose rustic wisdom and biting sarcasm hide a deeply nostalgic heart. And there’s Narayan, the perpetual schoolboy who is, in some ways, the child in all of us that refuses to grow up.
Pu La’s genius lies not in mocking these characters but in embracing them. He doesn’t caricature; he celebrates. His humor is never cruel — it is affectionate, empathetic, and steeped in a deep understanding of the human condition. Even the most eccentric characters are never reduced to a joke; instead, they are remembered with the kind of fondness we reserve for a slightly odd but dearly loved uncle.
What sets this collection apart is its universal relatability. While the language and setting are uniquely Marathi, the emotional truths are global. Anyone who has grown up in a closely-knit community — be it in Mumbai, Madurai, or Milan — will recognize these figures: the know-it-all, the dreamer, the miser, the eternal optimist.
The prose is sparkling, infused with Pu La’s trademark wit and rhythm. Reading Vyakti Ani Valli is like attending a solo performance where the storyteller dons a hundred masks with effortless flair, leaving the reader laughing, tearing up, and above all, thinking.
June 2, 2024
This is the first time I'm writing a book review without actually completing a book, also the first time I'm writing a book review.
Despite the long list of people recommending P.L Deshpande to me that includes my mom, my dad, cousin-brother, neighbour, maushi, maushi-ajji, and many others that I'm too lazy to list down- I was quite late to start it. And now that I've started- I'm hooked on it.
Reading this book was like watching a 'feel good' movie. You end up liking all the characters. I'm a quite slow Marathi reader. But believe me, reading this book is worth the patience. The characters come to life like magic.They reminded me of all the relatives that I've mentioned above and many others that I'm too lazy to list down.
To all my fellow goodreaders! If you haven't read P.L.Deshpande yet,
start it.
Despite the long list of people recommending P.L Deshpande to me that includes my mom, my dad, cousin-brother, neighbour, maushi, maushi-ajji, and many others that I'm too lazy to list down- I was quite late to start it. And now that I've started- I'm hooked on it.
Reading this book was like watching a 'feel good' movie. You end up liking all the characters. I'm a quite slow Marathi reader. But believe me, reading this book is worth the patience. The characters come to life like magic.They reminded me of all the relatives that I've mentioned above and many others that I'm too lazy to list down.
To all my fellow goodreaders! If you haven't read P.L.Deshpande yet,
start it.
August 24, 2025
Vyakti ani Valli वाचताना असं वाटतं की आपल्याच ओळखीचे लोक एकामागून एक भेटत आहेत. P. L. Deshpande यांनी इतक्या साधेपणाने characters उभे केलेत की ते खरंच आपल्यातलेच वाटतात. काही लोक हसवतात, काही डोळे पाणावतात, तर काहींची निरागसता मनात घर करून बसते.
‘Nathuram’ सारखा थोडा वेडसर पण मनमोकळा माणूस असो, की ‘Antu Barva’ सारखा तडाखेबाज, टोलेबाज वडीलधारी असो, ‘Bhavdya’ त्याच्या साध्या पण गमतीशीर स्वभावात, ‘Narayan’ सारखा खोडकर, ‘Mama’ आपल्या टिपिकल बोलण्यात, आणि अजून कितीतरी! प्रत्येकाची style वेगळी, रंग वेगळा, पण सगळे मिळून हे पुस्तक एकदम जिवंत करतात.
मलातरी Vyakti ani Valli अफाट आवडलं कारण यातले characters कुठल्यातरी गावात, शेजारी, नात्यातले वाटतात. वाचताना कधी हसू फुटतं, कधी डोळ्यात पाणी येतं, कधी स्वतःलाच ओळखू लागतोस.
हे पुस्तक म्हणजे माणसांचं आणि स्वभावांचं एक छोटंसं विश्व आहे. आणि मला वाटतं प्रत्येकाने हे 'आवर्जून' वाचायला हवं – कारण इथे तुला शब्दांपेक्षा जास्त, माणसं भेटतात.🙌🙌🙌
‘Nathuram’ सारखा थोडा वेडसर पण मनमोकळा माणूस असो, की ‘Antu Barva’ सारखा तडाखेबाज, टोलेबाज वडीलधारी असो, ‘Bhavdya’ त्याच्या साध्या पण गमतीशीर स्वभावात, ‘Narayan’ सारखा खोडकर, ‘Mama’ आपल्या टिपिकल बोलण्यात, आणि अजून कितीतरी! प्रत्येकाची style वेगळी, रंग वेगळा, पण सगळे मिळून हे पुस्तक एकदम जिवंत करतात.
मलातरी Vyakti ani Valli अफाट आवडलं कारण यातले characters कुठल्यातरी गावात, शेजारी, नात्यातले वाटतात. वाचताना कधी हसू फुटतं, कधी डोळ्यात पाणी येतं, कधी स्वतःलाच ओळखू लागतोस.
हे पुस्तक म्हणजे माणसांचं आणि स्वभावांचं एक छोटंसं विश्व आहे. आणि मला वाटतं प्रत्येकाने हे 'आवर्जून' वाचायला हवं – कारण इथे तुला शब्दांपेक्षा जास्त, माणसं भेटतात.🙌🙌🙌
November 25, 2025
Nanda Pradhan was an unexpected favourite. While some characters were similar in their nature, such as Sakharam Gatne, Paropkari Gampu, and Gaja Khot, they each carried their idiosyncrasies.
Narayan, Haritatya and Antu Barva brought tears to my eyes.
Chitale Master remains ever-favourite, as does Pestankaka.
P. S. I quite enjoyed reading along with a कथाकथन of the story, if available. Though the निवडक part means that one may have to pause in between to read that which the audio glisses over, having Pu La's voice narrate the bulk of it makes it all the more happening.
A reader has made audiobook versions of the stories that may not have been part of the original निवडक पु.ल. collection. Here's the link:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL...
Narayan, Haritatya and Antu Barva brought tears to my eyes.
Chitale Master remains ever-favourite, as does Pestankaka.
P. S. I quite enjoyed reading along with a कथाकथन of the story, if available. Though the निवडक part means that one may have to pause in between to read that which the audio glisses over, having Pu La's voice narrate the bulk of it makes it all the more happening.
A reader has made audiobook versions of the stories that may not have been part of the original निवडक पु.ल. collection. Here's the link:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL...
March 25, 2024
आयुष्यात भेटलेल्या लोकांबद्दल मजेदार आणि रुचिकरित्या लिहण्याची क्षमता पु ल ह्यांची अभूतपूर्व आहे. ह्या पुस्तकात पु ल हे भेटलेल्या लोकांबद्दल लिहीत आहेत आणि सांगत आहेत कि त्यांनी ह्या लोकांकडून काय शिकले किंवा ह्या लोकांचं सरळ साधे वर्णन केले आहे अगदी जीवनचरित्र सारखे. पुस्तक मजेदार आहे आणि पुस्तकातल्या छोट्या गोष्टी अगदी सहज वाहतात आणि त्यामुळे हे पुस्तक लवकर वाचून होते.
काही ठिकाणी पु ल ह्यांनी संस्कृत श्लोकांचे संदर्भ वापरले आहेत. हे संदर्भ समझणे थोडे कठीण होते. जर तुमचे संस्कृत चांगले असेल तर ते चांगले कळेल. पण माझे संकसृत चांगले नसल्यामुळे मला हे भाग पूर्णपणे कळाले नाहीत. अश्यावेळी जर हे संस्कृत श्लोकांचे अर्थ मराठीत किंवा ह्या श्लोकांचा स्पष्ट अनुवाद केला असता तर चांगले झाले असते.
Ability to write about people you have met in your life in a funny and interesting way is really amazing. And PL Deshpande excels at this!
This book describes different people that PL Deshpande has met over the years and what he has learnt from them or just describing these people as if he is writing a short biography.
As always PL Deshpande makes most of the descriptions interesting and funny.
There were some parts or some characters, where he referred to Sanskrit shlokas and so and the descriptions depended on your understanding of them. These parts I couldn't grasp so well. A bit of translation to normal Marathi would have been nice.
काही ठिकाणी पु ल ह्यांनी संस्कृत श्लोकांचे संदर्भ वापरले आहेत. हे संदर्भ समझणे थोडे कठीण होते. जर तुमचे संस्कृत चांगले असेल तर ते चांगले कळेल. पण माझे संकसृत चांगले नसल्यामुळे मला हे भाग पूर्णपणे कळाले नाहीत. अश्यावेळी जर हे संस्कृत श्लोकांचे अर्थ मराठीत किंवा ह्या श्लोकांचा स्पष्ट अनुवाद केला असता तर चांगले झाले असते.
Ability to write about people you have met in your life in a funny and interesting way is really amazing. And PL Deshpande excels at this!
This book describes different people that PL Deshpande has met over the years and what he has learnt from them or just describing these people as if he is writing a short biography.
As always PL Deshpande makes most of the descriptions interesting and funny.
There were some parts or some characters, where he referred to Sanskrit shlokas and so and the descriptions depended on your understanding of them. These parts I couldn't grasp so well. A bit of translation to normal Marathi would have been nice.
November 12, 2025
मी कोण रिव्ह्यू लिहिणारी? ज्यांना ज्यांना शक्य असेल त्या सगळ्यांनी पुलं वाचावेत आणि त्याचा निखळ आनंद घ्यावा. माझी आवडती पात्र मी सांगते फक्त हरितात्या, नामू परिट, सखाराम गटणे, नंदा प्रधान, नाथा कामत, चितळे मास्तर, बापू काणे आणि अंतू बर्वा. संपूर्ण पुस्तकभर हसवल्यानंतर अंतू एक जी काळजाला टोचणी लाऊन जातात ना ते शब्दबद्ध करणं महाकठीण. आता लिहिता लिहिता मी ही सखाराम ची भाषा अवगत करू लागले की काय असं वाटतंय.
November 16, 2022
Being marathi talker-reader, this book has special place in my bookshelf. Pu la introduces the ppl who he met in his life through each chapter. The character appears, even though imaginary will remain in ur remembrance throughout ur life. U will definitely relate the character with someone in ur life .......... humour is so personal that makes the laugh universal!!!
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