Vijaya Mehta, Influential Figure in Marathi Theatre, Dies at 91

Vijaya Mehta, a prominent figure in Marathi theatre and cultural administration, passed away on June 30, 2026, at the age of 91. Known affectionately as ‘Bai’ in theatrical circles, Ms. Mehta’s contributions spanned acting, directing, and arts administration.

Born on November 4, 1934, to Dattatray and Bhurabai Jaiwant, Ms. Mehta received formal training in theatre from the National School of Drama in Delhi, where she studied under renowned instructors Ebrahim Alkazi and Merchant. She also held a degree in economics and political science from the University of Mumbai.

Her acting career commenced with the Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh, where her first role was as Kamalve in 1953’s Marathi adaptation of Bunjarasara. Over the years, she featured in a variety of productions, playing significant roles in plays such as ‘Sanshaykallo’ (1955) and ‘Tujhe Aahe Tulyashi’ (1956).

In 1960, Vijaya Mehta co-founded the theatre group ‘Rangayan’ in Mumbai alongside notable figures like Vijay Tendulkar, Shriram Lagoo, and Arvind Deshpande. The group quickly gained recognition, presenting successful plays including ‘Mother’ and ‘Ek Shoom Baji Rao’.

From 1993 until March 31, 2010, Ms. Mehta held the position of director at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in Mumbai and served as chairperson of the National School of Drama in New Delhi. Beyond her administrative roles, she was actively involved in training the next generation of performers through various workshops facilitated by the Maharashtra Government.

Her autobiography, ‘Dima-Aathavnicha Gof’, earned her the Bharat Damani Sahitya Puraskar and the Masap Lakshmibai Tikvik Puraskar. Additionally, a collection of her writings was assembled by Ambarish Mishra under the title ‘Bai’ Eka Sangh Paryavaran Manorath Pravas’.

Ms. Mehta was also known for conducting sessions on the Stanislavski system of acting, making a lasting impact on many aspiring actors in Mumbai. She is survived by two sons from her marriage to Harin Khote and a daughter from her later marriage to Farokh Mehta.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to her, describing her as ‘a pioneer of modern Marathi theatre’, reflecting the deep appreciation and respect she garnered throughout her illustrious career.