Pune, known as the cultural capital of Maharashtra, has taken a significant step to enhance its artistic infrastructure with the inauguration of the Vithal Tupe Patil Auditorium in Hadapsar.
Built by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), this newly opened auditorium is poised to provide a vital platform for artists in the eastern part of the city.
PMC Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale emphasized that this auditorium would not only serve as a venue for cultural and social events but also contribute to Pune’s already rich cultural heritage.
The auditorium was inaugurated by Smt. Leelavati Vithal Tupe, the wife of the late Vithal Tupe Patil, in the absence of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who could not attend due to health issues.
The event was graced by prominent figures such as Additional Commissioner Prithviraj B.P., MLA Chetan Tupe, former State Minister Balasaheb Shivarkar, and other political leaders, local artists, and community members.
MLA Chetan Tupe delivered an emotional speech, reflecting on the life and contributions of his late father, Vithal Tupe Patil. Describing him as a principled and visionary leader, he recalled his father’s initiatives in urban development, notably the successful creation of Magarpatta City and Amanora City, which were accomplished through cooperation with local farmers.
Vithal Tupe’s contributions went beyond politics—he was an art enthusiast who even appeared in films alongside renowned actors such as Ram Nagarkar and Nilu Phule. His diverse career, spanning roles as a corporator, MP, chairman, and founder of multiple institutions, earned him widespread respect in Pune.
The auditorium’s inauguration on his birth anniversary was especially poignant for the Tupe family. “This idea of an auditorium in Hadapsar was conceived when I was a corporator. Today, it stands as a beautiful and attractive building. We are happy to name it after Vithal Tupe Patil, especially on his birth anniversary,” MLA Chetan Tupe said with pride.
