Shahu Patole holds Masters degrees in economics and journalism. He is the author of five books in Marathi: 'Bharat Jodo Usawlele Divas', 'Ann he Apurnabrahama' (English translation 'Dalit Kitchens of Marathwada'), 'Kuk Na Lim' (a socio- economic work on Nagaland), 'Khilaga' and 'Kadusa'. He is a retired government official and divides his time between Khamgaon village in Osmanabad District and Aurangabad in Maharashtra.