Madhu Kambikar was a renowned Marathi and Hindi theatre and film actress, folk artist, and television personality. Born in Malegaon, she was regarded as one of the iconic figures in the tradition of Lavani, Maharashtra’s celebrated folk dance form. She began her acting career in 1977 with the Marathi film Daga and went on to build an illustrious career spanning over four decades, featuring in more than 75 films. Her contributions earned her several accolades, including a Filmfare Marathi Award and six Maharashtra State Film Awards. She was best known for her performances in Marathi films such as Shapit (1982), Ek Hota Vidushak (1992) and Zapatlela (1993). Her notable Hindi film credits included Sutradhar (1986), Pratikaar (1991), Shola Aur Shabnam (1992), Saatwan Aasman (1992), Hum Dono (1995), Jagannath (1996), Yeshwant (1997) and Tune Mera Dil Le Liya (2000). Madhu Kambikar passed away in Pune on 12 October 2026, at the age of 73, following a prolonged illness and multiple health complications after suffering a paralytic stroke.