Author Anita Padhye Recalls Tragic Circumstances Surrounding Dada Kondke’s Passing

Legendary Marathi actor and filmmaker Dada Kondke, famed for classics such as Songadya, Pandu Havaldar, and Ram Ram Gangaram, brought joy to millions through his iconic comedy films. However, famous writer Anita Padhye recently revealed that the actor faced harrowing circumstances during his final moments on March 14, 1998.

In a recent interview, Padhye recalled receiving a late-night phone call from Kondke’s manager, Jitubhai, informing her of his sudden health deterioration. Upon arriving at the nursing hospital, she found that Kondke was accompanied only by four staff members, with no family members present.

Following his passing that night, the situation turned dire due to a severe shortage of available emergency transport. An ambulance parked outside required lengthy paperwork, while alternative services, including a local political ambulance, were unavailable. Phone calls to high-profile associates and ministers yielded no immediate assistance, forcing Padhye to stand guard beside the actor’s body alone in the hospital for two hours.

Eventually, Padhye, along with two of Kondke’s close friends, was forced to transport his body back to his residence in his own personal Contessa car. Shortly after the news spread, relatives, fans, and prominent political leaders gathered at his home to pay their final respects. Among the attendees was Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray, who sat beside Kondke’s body and consoled the grieving supporters.

Though Dada Kondke built a lasting legacy through his record-breaking success in Marathi cinema, Padhye’s account highlights the sobering contrast between his celebrated public persona and the isolation surrounding his final hours.