India, June 19 -- Noted wildlife conservationist and Marathi author Maruti Chitampalli passed away at the age of 93 at his residence in Solapur at around 8.30 pm on Wednesday due to age-related ailments. Referred by many as "Aranyarishee" (forest sage), Chitampalli leaves behind a rich legacy spanning forest conservation, environmental awareness, and Marathi literature.

Born on November 5, 1932, in Solapur, Chitampalli served in the Maharashtra Forest Department for over 36 years. During his tenure, he played a key role in wildlife and forest management, especially in ornithology, and represented India at several international conferences, presenting papers on biodiversity and conservation. He remained active in advisory roles even after...