Prime Minister Narendra Modi Condolences over death of Marathi theater legend Vijaya MehtaMehta died at his residence in Mumbai at the age of 91. A towering figure in Indian theater and parallel cinema, Mehta is remembered for his immense contribution to modern Marathi theater and for influencing generations of performers and filmmakers.Speaking on X, the Prime Minister described Vijaya Mehta as one of the most influential figures in Indian culture and cinema, highlighting her pioneering work and dedication to the arts.“Deeply saddened by the passing away of Mr. Vijaya Mehta Ji. She will be remembered as one of the luminaries of culture and cinema. She was a pioneer of modern Marathi theatre, known for her creativity and commitment to artistic excellence.”He also acknowledged the lasting impact of her work and expressed his condolences to her loved ones and the artistic community.“Her work has inspired generations of actors, directors and theater lovers. My thoughts are with her family, admirers and the entire arts community at this sad time. Om Shanti.”Vijaya Mehta, affectionately known as “White”, is one of the architects of modern Indian theatre. As a director, actor and producer, she played a key role in shaping China’s experimental theater movement. She is also one of the founding members of the playwrights’ Bombay Rangayan Theater Company Vijay Tendulkar and actors Arvind Deshpande and Shreeram Lagoo.In a career spanning more than six decades, Mehta co-founded Rangayan and directed several landmark stage productions, including Ek Shoonya Bajirao and Ajab Nyay Vartulacha. She has also directed critically acclaimed films like “Rao Saheb” and “Pestonjee”.She was born Vijaya Jaywant in Vadodara on November 4, 1934, and trained under noted theater instructors Ebrahim Alkazi and Adi Marzban. Her distinguished career has been recognized with numerous honors, including Padma Shri She won the Sangeet Natak Academic Award for Director in 1986, the Tagore Ratna Award in 1975 and the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress in 2012.Apart from her theater work, Vijaya Mehta has also made a significant mark in Indian parallel cinema with critically acclaimed performances in films such as “Kalyug” and “Party”, where her powerful yet understated performances earned her widespread acclaim.
