Majha Sahityik Khatla

Yashwant Vitthal Hadap was the eldest son of V. V. Hadap, who earned an esteemed place in literary history through his historical novels during the period from 1920 to 1940. Growing up in his father’s household, Yashwant Hadap witnessed the frequent visits of some of the most renowned literary figures of that era. He developed close friendships with many writers and became deeply involved not only in their literary lives but also in their personal joys and sorrows. As a natural outcome of these experiences, Yashwant Hadap wrote these articles at various points in his life.

When I, Abhijit Yashwant, look back at my father’s life, I am astonished by his determination and achievements. Leaving a teaching job during that period and moving to Bhagalpur, completing a three-year course in just one year to earn an LL.B. degree, returning to Nashik and starting an independent legal practice despite the advice of well-wishers, and eventually succeeding in it—all this, I believe, was possible because of his extraordinary determination.

Even while practising law, a profession often considered dry and demanding, he retained his sense of humour. Indeed, he consciously nurtured it throughout his life.

I remember an occasion when the son of a prominent lawyer was arguing a case against my father. Instead of criticising the young man’s arrogance directly, Baba simply remarked, “I am certain that our temperament is not something we inherit as a birthright.”

I do not believe in God. Yet, to whatever primordial force shaped the Earth and continues to shape it, I offer just one prayer: may my younger brother and I inherit our father’s determination, sense of humour, ability to overcome difficult circumstances, and creativity.