Theft bid: Pu La’s room broken into

An attempted robbery was reported at ‘Malati Madhav’ building,where the famous P L Deshpande,better known Pu La,lived for four years. Unidentified burglars broke into the room of the building in Bhandarkar Road,where many books the poet had owned is stored. Although nothing seems to have been stolen,the books were strewn about and a cupboard was found broken.

The incident came to light on Tuesday morning after Ashwin Sudhir Lokare (29),Deshpande’s relative,lodged a complaint with Deccan police.

Deshpande used to live on the first floor from 1996 to 2000.

The room remained closed after his death. Lohkare,who lives in the building,looks after the house. On Tuesday morning,Lohkare found Deshpande’s room was broken into. Lohkare found Deshpande’s books lying on the floor.

The cupboard in the bedroom was broken. Lohkare also informed Deshpande’s nephew Dinesh Thakur,who lives in USA,about the theft. Deccan police reached the spot and conducted investigations.