Early Life and Forest Calling
Born on November 5 (or 12) in 1932 in Solapur, Maharashtra, Maruti Bhujangrao Chitampalli, revered as “Aranya Rishi” or “Forest Sage”, felt a deep connection with nature from a young age. Influenced by his family and mentors, he pursued forestry at the prestigious Coimbatore Forest College in 1958 and later joined the Maharashtra Forest Service. His early career in Vidarbha and Nagpur forests played a vital role in shaping both his professional path and literary contributions.
An Illustrious Forestry Career
Chitampalli served for over three decades in India’s rich biodiversity zones including Melghat, Navegaon, Nagzira, and Karnala. He rose to the rank of Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests, playing a pivotal role in establishing major conservation efforts such as the Melghat Tiger Reserve. After dedicating his life to forest preservation, he retired in 1990. His legacy is etched into Maharashtra’s conservation history through his tireless work in protecting wildlife and natural habitats.
Literary Enthusiast and Tribal Linguist
Alongside his work as a conservationist, Chitampalli was a prolific writer who authored over 20 acclaimed books. His works included nature essays, wildlife chronicles, and exhaustive reference volumes such as Pakshi Kosh, Prani Kosh, and Vruksha Kosh. His writing enriched the Marathi language with more than 100,000 words sourced from tribal dialects, forest life, and indigenous wisdom. His commitment to linguistic preservation was deeply rooted in his love for local cultures and ecosystems.
Recognition and Awards
Chitampalli’s unique combination of environmental conservation and literary achievement earned him a wide array of accolades. He presided over the 83rd Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan in 2006 and was the recipient of numerous awards, including the Vinda Karandikar Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017, the Nagbhushan Award, Vasundhara Sanman, and several state literary recognitions. His dual legacy made him a revered figure in both environmental and literary circles.
Padma Shri Honour and Public Appreciation
In January 2025, the Government of India honoured Maruti Chitampalli with the Padma Shri, the nation’s fourth-highest civilian award, for his distinguished service in literature, education, and wildlife conservation. Reflecting on the award, Chitampalli credited the forests of Vidarbha with shaping his worldview and nourishing his spirit for over 45 years. The recognition brought widespread applause from environmentalists, writers, and public intellectuals, who hailed him as a guiding force in ecological preservation and cultural heritage.
Life After Retirement
Even after retiring from government service, Chitampalli remained actively engaged in spreading environmental awareness. Settled between Nagpur and Solapur, he continued to write, mentor young naturalists, and deliver lectures. He encouraged immersive learning, often telling nature enthusiasts to observe the rhythms of the forest deeply instead of focusing solely on photography or documentation. His philosophy promoted a meditative appreciation of the natural world.
Passing and Legacy
Maruti Chitampalli passed away on June 18, 2025, in Solapur at the age of 93. Known for his humility, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to conservation, his funeral is scheduled for Thursday afternoon in Solapur. His death marks the end of a monumental chapter in India’s environmental and literary history. Yet, his work continues to live on, inspiring future generations of conservationists, educators, and nature writers.
Enduring Impact on Conservation and Culture
Chitampalli’s enduring legacy lies in his rare ability to blend scientific insight with poetic expression. His contributions sparked deeper awareness of wildlife conservation, tribal cultures, and language preservation. Through his books, speeches, and ecological work, he instilled a profound respect for India’s forests and the communities that depend on them. His dedication paved the way for stronger policy focus on conservation and cultural sensitivity.
Chitampalli’s life was a harmonious blend of passion for nature, service to society, and devotion to literature. His teachings remind us that true ecological balance is achieved not just through policy, but through understanding, reverence, and a personal connection to the land. As the world grapples with climate change and biodiversity loss, the life and legacy of “Aranya Rishi” Maruti Chitampalli shine brighter than ever.
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