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Marathi cinema mourns death of celebrated lavani artist Madhu Kambiker

Madhu Kambiker, a renowned actress and lavani performer who left an indelible mark on Marathi cinema, passed away in Pune at the age of 73. Her death has prompted tributes from cultural figures and political leaders across Maharashtra.

LSN India · 12 October 2026

Marathi cinema mourns death of celebrated lavani artist Madhu Kambiker

The Marathi entertainment industry is in mourning following the death of Madhu Kambiker, one of its most celebrated performers. Kambiker, who specialized in lavani—the traditional Marathi folk dance and musical form—passed away in Pune on Wednesday, marking the end of a prolific career spanning several decades in Marathi cinema and theatre.

Known for her spirited performances and dedication to preserving the classical lavani tradition, Kambiker became a household name through her work in numerous Marathi films and stage productions. Her contributions to the art form helped keep the centuries-old lavani heritage alive for contemporary audiences during a period when traditional performance arts faced declining interest.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed his condolences at the passing of the veteran artist, acknowledging her significant role in Marathi cultural life. Fadnavis paid tribute to her artistic legacy and the way she championed traditional Marathi performance arts throughout her career.

Kambiker's death is a significant loss to the Marathi entertainment fraternity, which has seen the passing of several veteran performers in recent years. Her work as both an actress in cinema and a lavani dancer established her as a multifaceted artist who bridged classical tradition with popular entertainment.