Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Sep 1: The Indian television industry is in mourning following the untimely demise of popular actress Priya Marathe, who passed away on August 31 at the age of 38. The news has left her fans and colleagues shocked and heartbroken.
Priya, best known for her role as Varsha in the hit television drama Pavitra Rishta, had earned immense appreciation for her portrayal of a strong, outspoken woman. She played the on-screen wife of Anurag Sharma’s character, Satish, and shared a deep bond with many of her co-stars.
Anurag Sharma took to social media to express his grief, sharing a still from their time on the show.
“This is so unbelievable… Heartbreaking news we got today. I have lost a truly beautiful person, a brilliant artist, and a friend,” he wrote. “Thousands of memories spent with you are shuffling through my mind right now, but my hands are shivering. It was an honor to share the screen with Priya Marathe. She was a warm and generous soul whose laughter will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, mere dost Priya Marathe. Om Shanti.”
Pavitra Rishta, one of Indian television’s most iconic shows, also starred Ankita Lokhande, Sushant Singh Rajput, Usha Nadkarni, Savita Prabhune, and Prarthana Behere, among others. Priya’s character Varsha, Archana’s (played by Lokhande) younger sister, left a lasting impression on audiences with her bold and layered performance.
At her funeral, co-star Prarthana Behere, who played her on-screen younger sister, was seen visibly emotional, breaking down as she bid her final goodbye.
Battling Cancer with Grace and Strength
Priya had bravely fought a prolonged battle with cancer, having been diagnosed a few years ago. With timely treatment, she initially recovered. However, the disease relapsed, and despite her strength and resilience, she succumbed to it.
She is survived by her mother and her husband, Shantanu Moghe, a respected actor in the Marathi entertainment industry.
Actor Subodh Bhave, who recently worked with Priya in the Marathi TV show Tu Bhetshil Navyane, shared on social media how her cancer relapsed during the shoot, yet she continued to work with incredible determination. “She was a fighter—focused, talented, and unshaken even in the face of immense pain,” Bhave wrote.
A Loss That Will Be Felt Deeply
Priya Marathe’s untimely passing is a profound loss to the Indian entertainment world. Her performances, warmth, and unwavering spirit have left an indelible mark. Colleagues, fans, and the entire industry mourn not just the loss of a fine actress, but of a vibrant soul gone too soon.
Rest in peace, Priya Marathe. Om Shanti.