He was also an accomplished film and stage actor, script writer, author, composer, musician, singer and orator.

[citation needed] His maternal grandfather, Vaman Mangesh Dubhashi, was a Marathi poet and writer.

His first 8 years at the newly formed Saraswati Baug Colony are described in the story titled 'Balpanicha Kaal Sukhacha' or Bālpaṇicā Kāḷ Sukhācā (translation: the happy days of childhood) in his book Purchundi.

"Vyakti Ani Valli" (व्यक्ती आणि वल्ली): This book is a collection of character sketches, portraying various eccentric personalities from Deshpande's life.

Each character is brought to life with humor and wit, reflecting the diverse and colorful spectrum of human nature.

"Batatyachi Chaal" (बटाट्याची चाळ): A humorous depiction of life in a chawl (a type of communal housing) in Mumbai, the book captures the quirky and endearing lives of its inhabitants, illustrating their daily struggles and camaraderie with a comedic touch.

Written with his characteristic humor, the book offers insightful and amusing observations about European culture and lifestyle.

"Asa Mi Asami" (असा मी असामी): A satirical autobiography, this novel presents the life of a common man through a series of humorous episodes, highlighting the absurdities and ironies of middle-class existence in India.

It retains the original's critique of social class distinctions while adding Deshpande's unique comedic flair.

"Jave Tyanchya Desha" (जावे त्यांच्या देशा): Another travelogue, this book describes Deshpande's visit to various countries, filled with humorous anecdotes and reflections on the cultural differences he encounters.

"Guna Gaiin Awadi" (गुण गाईन आवडी): A collection of essays that blend humor with philosophical insights, showcasing Deshpande's ability to find comedy in everyday situations while pondering deeper meanings.

He was a proficient in Hindustani classical music.He composed music for many marathi films of 1940s and '50s including 'Amaldar', 'Gulacha Ganapati', 'Ghardhani', 'Chokhamela', 'Dudhbhat', 'Dev Pavla', 'Devbappa', 'Navrabayako', 'Nave Birhad', 'Manache Paan' and 'Mothi Manase'.

[8][11] He was also the composer for many popular non-film songs in the "bhavegeet" genre sung by singers such as Jyotsna Bhole, Manik Varma and Asha Bhosale.

Deshpande died in Pune, Maharashtra, on 12 June 2000, due to complications from Parkinson's disease.