On September 13, the Marathi film industry celebrates the birthday of one of its most cherished treasures, Usha Nadkarni, who turns 77 today. With a career spanning over four decades, Usha Nadkarni has left an indelible mark on both Marathi and Hindi cinema, captivating audiences with her exceptional acting skills and versatility.

A Remarkable Career in Entertainment

Born on September 13, 1946, Usha Nadkarni made her foray into the world of Marathi cinema with her debut in the film 'Sinhasan' in 1979. From that moment on, there was no looking back for the actress, who quickly rose to prominence in the industry. She seamlessly transitioned between television and film, gracing over 100 productions with her presence and leaving an indelible mark on each.

However, her true breakthrough came with her portrayal of 'Savita Deshmukh' in the immensely popular soap opera 'Pavitra Rishta,' which premiered on Zee TV in 2009. Her performance was nothing short of stellar, earning her several accolades, including the prestigious Zee Gold Best Actor In A Negative Role (Female) Award. 'Pavitra Rishta' not only endeared her to the hearts of countless viewers but also showcased her exceptional talent as an actress.

A Reality TV Pioneer

In 2018, Usha Nadkarni made headlines by participating in the inaugural season of 'Bigg Boss Marathi.' She made history as the oldest contestant to grace the reality show's house, proving that age is no barrier to her spirit and enthusiasm for entertainment. Her presence added a touch of grace and maturity to the show, earning her respect from fellow contestants and fans alike.

Bollywood Ventures and Beyond

While her roots are deeply embedded in the Marathi film industry, Usha Nadkarni also ventured into Bollywood. She made her Hindi film debut with a supporting role in the 1987 film 'Pratighaat.' Her Bollywood journey continued with notable roles in movies like 'Vaastav - The Reality,' 'Great Grand Masti,' and 'Rustom.' Her ability to seamlessly transition between different cinematic landscapes is a testament to her incredible acting prowess.

A Heart of Gold

Beyond her on-screen persona, Usha Nadkarni is beloved for her compassionate and caring nature. In contrast to the often negative characters she portrayed on television, she is known for her warm and nurturing personality in real life. Her colleagues in the industry speak highly of her, highlighting her ability to maintain positive relationships with everyone she encounters.

One of her remarkable traits is her commitment to supporting those in need. She has consistently stood up against the mistreatment of crew members in the entertainment industry and has offered financial assistance to individuals facing hardships. Usha Nadkarni's benevolence extends far beyond the realm of acting.

A Culinary Enthusiast

In addition to her talents on the screen, Usha Nadkarni is a passionate foodie with a particular love for cooking fish. Her generosity knows no bounds, as she often brings homemade delicacies to the sets of her shows and films to share with crew members. Her commitment to ensuring that everyone gets a taste of her culinary creations reflects her nurturing nature.

As Usha Nadkarni celebrates her 77th birthday, the entertainment industry and her legions of fans honor her outstanding contributions to Marathi and Hindi cinema. Her enduring talent, coupled with her warm-heartedness, makes her a true icon in the world of entertainment. Here's wishing Usha Nadkarni a day filled with love, happiness, and the same warmth she has shared with us through her remarkable career. Happy Birthday, Usha Nadkarni!