Makarand Deshpande is a prominent Indian actor, writer, director, and producer, contributing significantly to Hindi, Marathi, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada cinema and theatre. He’s widely recognized for his compelling stage presence and diverse roles.

Biography/Wiki

Born on March 6, 1966, in Dahanu, Maharashtra, Makarand Deshpande currently resides in Vile Parle, Mumbai. His passion for writing blossomed in his youth, leading him to craft plays during his college years. By 2018, his theatre career boasted over 90 productions, encompassing both short and full-length plays. His exceptional acting skills earned him two South Indian International Movie Awards in 2012 for Best Actor in a Negative Role, for his performances in Dandupalya (Kannada) and No. 66 Madhura Bus (Malayalam).

Physical Appearance

Known for his distinctive style, he stands approximately 6 feet tall and weighs around 70 kg. His dark brown eyes and salt-and-pepper hair add to his unique persona.

Family & Wife

Hailing from a middle-class Hindu family, Makarand’s personal life includes a past engagement to actress Sonali Kulkarni, which ended in 2006. He later married writer Nivedita Pohankar in 2016, following a relationship spanning several years.

Career

Deshpande completed his schooling at B. P. M. High School, Mumbai, and graduated from Narsee Monjee College of Commerce and Economics, Mumbai. His theatrical journey began during college, writing plays for intercollegiate competitions. His acting debut was in 1988’s Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, playing the role of Baba.

His career expanded beyond Bollywood, encompassing roles in various language films. He joined Prithvi Theatre in 1990, and co-founded Ansh Theatre Group with Kay Kay Menon in 1993. He’s produced, written, and directed numerous successful plays, showcasing his multifaceted talent.

His directorial and writing credits include films like Danav (2003), Hanan (2004), Shahrukh Bola Khoobsurat Hai Tu (2010), Sona Spa (2013), and Saturday Sunday (2014). He also lent his voice to several films, showcasing his versatility.

His television appearances include judging the Marathi reality show Marathi Paul Padate Pudhe (2011) and participating in Celebrity Cricket League (CCL) Season 3 (2013).

Facts

Here are some interesting facts about Makarand Deshpande:

• Published a limited-edition book on Ansh Theatre Group.
• Enjoys alcohol.
• Aspires to portray Raja Ravi Varma on screen.
• Counts Jackie Shroff, Anil Kapoor (actors) and Aishwarya Rai (actress) among his favorites.
• Loves singing, with Udit Narayan and Sonu Nigam as his favorite singers.
• Enjoys traveling, with Jaipur, Bhopal, and Lucknow as some favorite destinations.
• Admires playwrights Vijay Tendulkar, William Shakespeare, Luigi Pirandello, and Rabindranath Tagore.
• Enjoys Cricket and Kho Kho.

Awards and Recognition

Makarand Deshpande’s contributions to the film and theatre industry have earned him several accolades, including: