Veteran Marathi actor and Lavani artiste Madhu Kambikar died in Pune on Monday, October 12, 2026, at the age of 73 after battling a prolonged illness. Known for her contributions to Marathi cinema, theatre, television and traditional folk performances, Madhu built a career spanning more than four decades. Her work helped bring Maharashtra’s folk traditions, particularly Lavani, to wider audiences through stage performances and films. Her death has prompted tributes from political leaders and members of the Marathi entertainment industry.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed grief over her passing, remembering her contributions to films, folk theatre, commercial theatre and television serials. He highlighted her performances in films such as Hech Majha Maher, Raghumaina, Ek Hota Vidushak, Zapatlela, Debu and Yeu Ka Gharat. Fadnavis also praised her efforts to popularise folk art rooted in rural Maharashtra, noting that her work had enriched the state's cultural and entertainment landscape.

Madhu established herself as a prominent performer through her versatility as an actor and dancer. She was particularly recognised for her association with Lavani, a traditional Maharashtrian performance art combining rhythmic music, expressive dance and storytelling. She also worked in folk theatre and commercial stage productions before becoming a familiar face in Marathi films. Her performances often brought rural characters and cultural traditions to the screen, helping her connect with audiences across generations.

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Among her notable film appearances was Ek Hota Vidushak, alongside several other Marathi productions that became part of her extensive filmography. She also appeared in Hindi films, including Shola Aur Shabnam, Hum Dono and Yeshwant. Across her career, she received several honours for her artistic achievements, including six Maharashtra State Film Awards. Her work across different formats demonstrated her ability to move between cinema, television and live performance while remaining closely associated with Maharashtra's folk traditions.

A major turning point in Madhu's life came in November 2016, when she suffered a stroke following a Lavani performance in Mumbai. The health setback affected her ability to perform and significantly limited her subsequent participation in films and stage productions. Although she had established a long-standing reputation as a performer, the complications following the stroke kept her away from much of the work that had defined her career. Her later years were marked by continuing health difficulties.

Madhu's death marks the loss of an artiste whose career connected Marathi entertainment with traditional folk performance. Through her work in films, theatre and Lavani, she helped preserve and popularise cultural forms closely associated with rural Maharashtra. Tributes from state leaders and the wider entertainment community have recognised her contribution to the regional arts. Her performances and extensive body of work are expected to remain an important part of her artistic legacy.

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