Vijaya Mehta Passes Away at 91; PM Modi Hails Her Legacy in Indian Theatre and Cinema

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday led tributes to legendary theatre director, actor and producer Vijaya Mehta, who passed away at her Mumbai residence at the age of 91, remembering her as one of the defining figures of Indian theatre and cinema whose influence shaped generations of performers.

In a message shared on X, the Prime Minister described Mehta as a "towering personality of culture and cinema" and hailed her pioneering contribution to modern Marathi theatre.

"Deeply saddened by the passing of Smt. Vijaya Mehta Ji. She will be remembered as one of the towering personalities of culture and cinema. A pioneer of modern Marathi theatre, she was known for her creativity and commitment to artistic excellence," Modi wrote.

He said Mehta's work went beyond the stage, inspiring generations of actors, directors and theatre enthusiasts across the country.

"Her work inspired generations of actors, directors and theatre lovers. My thoughts are with her family, admirers and the entire artistic fraternity in this hour of grief. Om Shanti," the Prime Minister added.

Fondly known as "Bai", Mehta was widely regarded as one of the architects of modern Indian theatre. Over a career spanning more than six decades, she helped redefine Marathi theatre through bold experimentation, powerful storytelling and a generation of memorable productions.

She was among the founding members of Mumbai's influential Rangayan theatre group, alongside celebrated playwright Vijay Tendulkar and theatre stalwarts Arvind Deshpande and Shreeram Lagoo. Rangayan became one of the driving forces behind India's experimental theatre movement.

Her body of work included landmark productions such as Ek Shoonya Bajirao and Ajab Nyay Vartulacha, while her directorial ventures in cinema, including Rao Saheb and Pestonjee, earned widespread critical acclaim. As an actor, she also delivered memorable performances in acclaimed parallel cinema films such as Kalyug and Party.

Born Vijaya Jaywant on November 4, 1934, in Baroda, she trained under renowned theatre mentors Ebrahim Alkazi and Adi Marzban before emerging as one of India's most respected voices in theatre.

Her contribution to the performing arts was recognised with several prestigious honours, including the Padma Shri in 1986, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Direction in 1975, the Tagore Ratna in 2012 and the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress.

Even as audiences remember her celebrated productions and performances, Vijaya Mehta's greatest legacy lies in the generations of artists she inspired and the transformative role she played in shaping modern Indian theatre.

(With inputs from ANI)