From Paru to Pakistan: Vijay Patwardhan and Mugdha Karnik Reunite for Bharat Dabholkar’s Marathi Debut

The popular on-screen duo from Zee Marathi’s Paru, Vijay Patwardhan and Mugdha Karnik, are set to trade their household drama for high-stakes “spygiri.” The pair, beloved as Ahilyadevi and Shrikant Kirloskar, will headline the upcoming Marathi play Carry On Spygiri, marking the Marathi directorial debut of legendary “Ad Guru” and “Hinglish” theater pioneer Bharat Dabholkar.

 

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Bharat Dabholkar, a titan of English, Hindi, and Gujarati theater for decades, steps onto the Marathi stage as a writer, director, and actor. Produced by Akash Bhadsawale’s ‘Sawai Gandharva’ and ‘Abhijat,’ the play promises Dabholkar’s signature “black humor” and sharp political commentary, tailored specifically for the Marathi audience.

For Vijay Patwardhan, Carry On Spygiri marks his 58th professional play. He and Mugdha Karnik share a long history, having first collaborated on the hit play Gholat Ghol before their two-year stint on Paru.

“Since Mugdha and I have a perfect understanding of each other’s working style and timing, the audience will see that same chemistry in Carry On Spy,” Patwardhan shared. “Comedy is the best escape in today’s tense life, and working with Bharat sir has been a fantastic experience.”

Mugdha Karnik echoed the sentiment, noting the stark contrast between their television roles and these new characters:

“Our characters in the serial and this play are completely opposite. Bharat Sir’s scholarly working style and the political depth in his writing give the play a unique edge. We are learning so much during rehearsals.”

The spy-comedy features a robust ensemble including Mohan Azad, Rahul Pethe, Akash Bhadsawale, Suyash Purohit, Geetanjali Gange, Gaurav Nimkar, and Bharat Dabholkar himself.

Fans can catch the premiere shows at the following iconic venues –  Mumbai: April 10, 2026, at Shri Shivaji Mandir Theatre, Dadar. and Pune: April 18, 2026, at Balgandharva Rangmandir.

With its blend of authentic Marathi theater traditions and Dabholkar’s distinctive modern “pattern,” Carry On Spygiri is positioned to be a major milestone for the 2026 theatrical season.