Padma Chavan

Padma Chavan was an Indian actress who appeared in Marathi and Hindi films, television and theatres. Chavan made her acting debut in 1959 opposite Ramesh Deo in the movie Akashganga. She was famously known as Maharashtra's Marilyn Monroe.

Early life Padma Chavan was born on 7 July 1944 into a prominent Sardar family from Kolhapur, Maharashtra. She was the daughter of Captain Annasaheb Chavan. She completed her primary education, but chose to leave formal schooling at a young age to pursue her interest in acting and a career in cinema.

In 1959, at the age of 15, Chavan made her screen debut in the film Akashganga, directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Bhalji Pendharkar. Her natural screen presence and appearance facilitated her early entry into the industry, allowing her to establish herself as an actress during the formative years of her career.

Career Chavan’s career spanned several decades, during which she worked in Marathi and Hindi cinema, as well as Marathi theatre. She was noted for her versatility in portraying both urban and rural characters. Her performances in the films Ya Sukhano Ya (1975) and Aaram Haram Aahe (1976) earned her awards from the Government of Maharashtra. In the context of Marathi theatre, she appeared in plays such as Lagnachi Bedi, Majhi Bayko Majhi Mehuni!, and Guntata Hridaya He. Following her performance in the play Lakhat Ashi Dekhani, writer-director Acharya Atre referred to her as the "Marilyn Monroe of Maharashtra" and the "Atom Bomb of Beauty."

Personal life and death Padma Chavan was married to director Kamlakar Torne. She died following a car accident.

Filmography

Films

Play and role Lagnachi Bedi (Rashmi) Mazi Bayko Mazi Mevhani (Rasika) Navryachi Dhamal Tar Baykochi Kamal (Sunita) Sakhi Shejarini (Preeti) Biwi Kari Salaam (Rama) Mavali (Alaknanda) Guntata Hruday He (Kalyani) Vaje Paul Aapule (Sushila) Lafada Sadan (Sandika) Pijara (Aai) Baykola Jevha Jaag Yete (Avantika) Mhanun Mi Tula Kuthe Net Nahi (Satyabhama)