MUMBAI: Veteran theatre director, actor and one of the foremost architects of modern Marathi theatre, Vijaya Mehta passed away at her residence in Mumbai on the night of June 30. She was 92.
Widely regarded as a pioneering force in experimental Marathi theatre, Mehta transformed the stage through the theatre group Rangayan, introducing innovative storytelling techniques, contemporary theatrical language and a globally influenced approach to performance.
Fondly known as “Bai”, she mentored generations of actors and theatre practitioners, leaving an enduring legacy in Indian performing arts.
Among her most celebrated stage productions were Barrister, Sakharam Binder, Hamidabaichi Kothi, Mahanirvan, Purush, Hayavadana and Wada Chirebandi.
Her contribution extended beyond theatre to cinema and television, where she earned acclaim for works including Rao Saheb, Pestonjee, Party, Shakuntalam and the television series Smritichitre.
Born on November 4, 1934, in Baroda, Gujarat, Mehta graduated from the University of Mumbai and went on to establish herself as one of India’s most respected directors and actors.
Her distinguished career was recognised with numerous honours. She received the Padma Shri in 1986, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Direction in 1975, the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress for Rao Saheb, the Best Actress award at the Asia Pacific Film Festival for Party, the META Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Tagore Ratna in 2012 in recognition of her outstanding contribution to Indian theatre.
Condolences have poured in from across the film and theatre fraternity, with artists remembering Mehta as one of the last towering figures of Indian theatre whose work shaped generations of performers and directors.
Expressing grief over her demise, Narendra Modi described her as a towering personality in culture and cinema.
Deeply saddened by the passing of Smt. Vijaya Mehta Ji. She will be remembered as one of the towering personalities of culture and cinema.
A pioneer of modern Marathi theatre, she was known for her creativity and commitment to artistic excellence. Her work inspired generations…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 1, 2026
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Smt. Vijaya Mehta. As a towering figure in the fields of culture and cinema, she will always be remembered. She was a pioneer of modern Marathi theatre, recognised for her unwavering dedication to creativity and artistic excellence. Her work inspired generations of actors, directors and theatre enthusiasts. On this sorrowful occasion, I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family, fans and the entire artistic community. Om Shanti.”
