Veteran Marathi stage and screen actress Daya Dongre, renowned for her expressive performances and commanding presence, passed away at the age of 85 due to age-related complications. Her demise marks the end of a significant era in Marathi entertainment, leaving behind a rich legacy cherished by theatre enthusiasts and film lovers alike.Actor Nitish Bharadwaj, who worked with Dongre early in his career, paid a heartfelt tribute, describing her as his “second mother.” He recalled her warmth, kindness, and unwavering support both on and off the set.
He shared, “Daya Mavshi, my beloved mother in my very first feature film, has passed away. I mourn the loss of my second mother, who always kept in touch to check on me. On screen, she played irrational and harsh characters, but in reality, she was a gentle soul who lovingly cooked meals for me at her Mahim home. She was the only person who could scold me after my mother passed away.”Born Daya Modak on March 11, 1940, in Amravati, Maharashtra, Dongre hailed from a family deeply rooted in the arts.
Her mother, Yamunatai Modak, was an actor, and her aunt, Shanta Modak, was a celebrated singer and performer. Daya’s artistic journey began early—she won an All India Radio singing competition and debuted on stage at 16 with the play Rambha. After a brief hiatus for marriage, supported by her husband Sharad, she returned to acting with renewed passion.Daya Dongre became a prominent figure in Marathi theatre and cinema, admired for her authenticity and emotional depth. Her roles in Tuzhi Majhi Jodi Jamli Re and Lekure Udand Jali won critical acclaim and audience love.
She gained national recognition with Doordarshan’s Gajara and became known for her memorable portrayals of strong-willed mother-in-law characters in films like Maaybaap and Atmavishwas. Her work in popular serials such as Tujhi Majhi Jamali Jodi Re and Nanda Saukhya Bhare further cemented her reputation.The Government of Maharashtra honoured Dongre for her outstanding contributions to Marathi cinema, particularly for her performances in Maaybaap and Khatyal Sasu Nathal Soon.
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