Veteran Marathi actress and renowned Lavani performer Madhu Kambikar passed away in Pune on October 12, 2026, at the age of 73 following a prolonged illness. Her death marks the end of an era for Marathi cinema, theatre and traditional folk performances, where she made a lasting contribution over a career spanning more than four decades.
Known for her versatile acting and remarkable command of Lavani and Tamasha, Kambikar earned a special place in Marathi entertainment. Her performances across films and theatre brought her widespread recognition and helped introduce Maharashtra’s traditional folk art forms to audiences beyond India.
Early Life and Journey into Performing Arts
Born on July 28, 1953, in Malegaon Khurd village in Maharashtra’s Beed district, Madhu Kambikar developed an interest in performing arts at an early age. Inspired by her father, she pursued her passion and received training in Kathak dance before making her professional debut in 1973 at Mumbai’s New Hanuman Theatre in Lalbaug.
She began her journey with Tamasha troupes before expanding her work into Marathi films and commercial theatre. Through her expressive performances and strong stage presence, she established herself as a respected artist in the industry.
Her health took a serious turn in 2016 after she suffered a stroke. The incident occurred on November 27, 2016, when she collapsed during a Lavani-Tamasha performance at Yashwant Natya Mandir in Matunga. Following the stroke, she remained bedridden for several years and was unable to continue performing.
Memorable Films and Contribution to Marathi Folk Arts
During her career, Kambikar appeared in more than 75 films, portraying a wide range of characters. She was particularly appreciated for her roles as mothers, mothers-in-law and strong female personalities, which connected with Marathi audiences.
Alongside her work in cinema, she was widely recognised for her expertise in Lavani and Tamasha. Her performances helped bring these traditional art forms to a broader audience, with appearances on international platforms in the United States, the UAE and Mauritius.
Some of her notable films include:
- Shaapit (1982)
- Raghu Maina (1983)
- Bin Kamacha Navra (1984)
- Ek Hota Vidushak (1992)
- Yevu Kaa Gharaat (1992)
- Zapatlela (1993)
- Mukta (1994)
- Doghi (1995)
- Yeshwant (1997)
- Mumbaicha Dabewala (2007)
- Zapatlela 2 (2013)
Her work reflected her ability to move between different genres and performance styles while remaining deeply connected to Marathi culture and traditions.
Awards, Recognition and Lasting Legacy
Madhu Kambikar received several honours during her career in recognition of her contribution to cinema and performing arts. Her accolades included a Filmfare Marathi Award for Best Actress for Shapit and six Maharashtra State Film Awards.
She was also honoured with the Hansa Wadkar Special Award for Best Actress, the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University (BAMU) Lifetime Achievement Award and the Natvarya Keshavrao Date Puraskar.
In 2012, she documented her life and artistic journey in her Marathi biographical book, Madhurang, offering readers a glimpse into her experiences and career.
Kambikar’s death is a significant loss for Marathi cinema, theatre and traditional folk arts. Her memorable performances, dedication to Lavani and Tamasha, and decades of work in the entertainment industry have left a lasting mark on Maharashtra’s cultural heritage. Her contribution to the performing arts will continue to be remembered by audiences and future generations of artists.