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Veteran actress Madhu Kambikar, known for her work in Marathi cinema, theatre and Lavani, passed away in Pune after a prolonged illness. She was 73.
Marathi Actress Madhu Kambikar Dies At 73 After Prolonged Illness, Maha CM Devendra Fadnavis Pays Tribute
Veteran Marathi actress and Lavani artist Madhu Kambikar passed away at the age of 73 on October 12, 2026. She died in Pune after a prolonged illness, according to media reports. Madhu Kambikar was a well-known name in Marathi cinema, theatre and folk performance. Over a career spanning more than four decades, she played several memorable roles on screen and worked to promote Maharashtra’s traditional folk arts. Her death has left the Marathi entertainment industry in mourning.
Madhu Kambikar Passes Away
Madhu Kambikar had been away from the limelight for nearly a decade due to her health problems. On November 27, 2016, she performed at a ‘Lavanya Sangeet’ programme held at Yashwant Natya Mandir in Matunga, Mumbai.
However, the event took an unexpected turn when the veteran actress fell unconscious on stage. She was rushed to the hospital, where she reportedly suffered a stroke. Following the incident, Kambikar became bedridden and remained away from public performances.
All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) is deeply saddened and shocked by the demise of veteran actress, folk artist and film and TV personality Madhu Kambikar.She was one of the most respected senior actresses of Marathi cinema, and her contribution to the industry was immense. Through her honest performances and her devotion to Maharashtra’s folk traditions, she touched millions of hearts. Her passing leaves a void that can never be filled. Today, an era has come to an end.
The Marathi film industry, and Maharashtra in particular, will never forget her contribution. Her work will keep inspiring generations of artists.
AICWA prays that God grants peace to her soul and gives strength and courage to her family and her countless fans in this hour of grief.
Om Shanti.
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— All Indian Cine Workers Association (@aicwaofficial) October 12, 2026
Devendra Fadnavis Pays Tribute to Madhu Kambikar
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed grief over Madhu Kambikar’s demise. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he remembered her contribution to Marathi cinema, folk theatre, commercial theatre and television.
In his message, Devendra Fadnavis said the news of her death was deeply saddening. He recalled her performances in films such as Hech Majha Maher, Raghumaina, Ek Hota Vidushak, Zapatlela, Debu and Yeu Ka Gharat.
ज्येष्ठ अभिनेत्री मधू कांबीकर जी यांच्या निधनाचे वृत्त अतिशय दुःखद आहे. चित्रपट, लोकनाट्य, व्यावसायिक रंगभूमी आणि दूरदर्शन मालिकांमध्ये त्यांनी अनेक महत्त्वपूर्ण भूमिका साकारल्या होत्या. ‘हेच माझं माहेर’, ‘राघुमैना’, ‘एक होता विदूषक’, ‘झपाटलेला’, ‘डेबू’ आणि ‘येऊ का घरात’ यांसारख्या चित्रपटांतील त्यांच्या भूमिका प्रेक्षकांच्या चिरस्मरणात राहतील. अभिनय आणि नृत्य यांचा सुरेख मेळ साधत त्यांनी ग्रामीण जीवनाशी जोडलेल्या लोककलेला लोकप्रिय करण्यासाठी सातत्यानं प्रयत्न केले. चार दशकांहून अधिक काळ कलाक्षेत्रात सक्रिय राहून त्यांनी मराठी मनोरंजनविश्व समृद्ध केलं, त्याचं हे योगदान कायम स्मरणात राहील.मी त्यांना भावपूर्ण श्रद्धांजली अर्पण करतो. त्यांच्या कुटुंबीयांच्या आणि चाहत्यांच्या दुःखात आम्ही सहभागी आहोत.
ॐ शांती 🙏
— Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) October 12, 2026
“The news of the demise of veteran actress Madhu Kambikar Ji is deeply saddening. She portrayed several significant roles in films, folk theatre, commercial theatre, and television serials. Her performances in films such as Hech Majha Maher, Raghumaina, Ek Hota Vidushak, Zapatlela, Debu, and Yeu Ka Gharat will remain etched in the memories of audiences forever,” he wrote in Marathi.
“With a beautiful blend of acting and dance, she consistently strived to popularize folk art rooted in rural life. Having remained active in the world of art and entertainment for over four decades, she enriched the Marathi entertainment industry immensely. Her invaluable contribution will always be remembered. I pay my heartfelt tribute to her. We stand with her family members and admirers in this hour of grief. Om Shanti,” he further added.
The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) also expressed profound grief over Madhu Kambikar’s demise.
Madhu Kambikar’s Journey in Marathi Cinema
Madhu Kambikar built a career that spanned several decades. She worked across Marathi films, theatre and television, earning recognition for her performances in a range of roles.
She was particularly known for her work in films such as Shapit, Ek Hota Vidushak and Zapatlela. Her performance in Shapit brought her considerable recognition and helped establish her as a respected actress in Marathi cinema.
Beyond films, Kambikar remained closely connected to the stage and traditional forms of performance. Her work reflected her versatility as an artist and her deep connection with Maharashtra’s cultural traditions. Apart from acting, Madhu Kambikar was known for her association with Lavani, one of Maharashtra’s most popular traditional performance forms.
With her passing, Marathi entertainment has lost a veteran artist whose work connected audiences with the state’s rich artistic traditions. Her performances and contribution to the industry will continue to be remembered.
Quick Answers
Ask News18Madhu Kambikar suffered a stroke after collapsing backstage during a ‘Lavanya Sangeet’ programme at Yashwant Natya Mandir in Matunga, Mumbai, on November 27, 2016. Following the incident, she remained bedridden and away from the limelight for nearly a decade until her passing.
Ask News18October 12, 2026, 14:12 IST