Mumbai, August 31, 2025 – Popular Hindi and Marathi television actress Priya Marathe, best known for her role of Varsha in the hit TV show Pavitra Rishta, passed away at the age of 38. The actress, who was battling cancer for the past few years, breathed her last at her residence in Mira Road, Mumbai on Sunday.
The entertainment industry and her fans are in deep shock with Priya’s untimely demise. Known for her charming screen presence and power-packed acting, she was considered one of the most versatile faces in both Marathi and Hindi television.
Journey from comedy to television stardom
Born and brought up in Mumbai, Priya started her career as a stand-up comedian before venturing into the world of television. She made her acting debut with the Marathi serial Ya Sukhano Ya and soon appeared in popular shows like Char Divas Sasuche.
Her breakthrough in Hindi television came with Ekta Kapoor’s show ‘Kasamh Se’, in which she played the role of Vidya Bali. But it was Pavitra Rishta that made her a household name, as she made a place in the hearts of the audience by playing the character of Varsha alongside Ankita Lokhande and the late Sushant Singh Rajput.
In her career, Priya also worked in serials like ‘Bade Achhe Lagte Hain’, ‘Uttaran’, ‘Savdhaan India’, ‘Bharat Ka Veer Putra – Maharana Pratap’ and ‘Saath Nibhaana Saathiya’, where she played the character of Bhavani Rathod. In Marathi television, she worked in ‘Tu Tithe Mein’ and recently in the game show ‘Aata Hou De Dhingana’.
She also worked in several films including the 2008 Hindi film ‘Humne Jeena Seekh Liya’ and the 2017 Marathi film ‘Ti Aani Itaar’.
Remembered by family and colleagues
Priya is survived by her husband, actor Shantanu Moghe, who stood by her during her long battle with cancer.
Actor Subodh Bhave, who was also her cousin, wrote an emotional tribute on social media. In his note, he recalled Priya’s resilience and dedication:
“She was not only a talented actress but also my dear sister. Even after being diagnosed with the disease, she fought bravely and returned to work with the same sincerity and passion. Her illness recurred during our serial Tu Bhetashi Navyane, but her spirits never broke. Priya was a warrior till the very end. Om Shanti.”
A legacy of gentleness and strength
Fans and colleagues are mourning the demise of an actress who equally balanced strength and weakness on screen. Apart from her acting chops, Priya Marathe will be remembered as a courageous woman who fought her illness with dignity and continued to pursue her passion of acting.
Her demise is yet another heartbreaking moment for the television industry, which has recently lost many beloved actors too early. Condolences are pouring in from across the industry, but one thing is for sure—Priya Marathe’s acting, warmth and her legacy will always live on in the hearts of her fans.
May her soul rest in peace. Om Shanti.