That last 1 hour of Priya Marathe | Pavitra Rishta actress priya marathey passed away

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Priya Marathe’s Final Curtain Call at 38 – A Tribute to a Beloved Television Star

It was with profound sorrow that the entertainment world learned of actress Priya Marathe’s passing on August 31, 2025. At just 38 years old, Priya breathed her last at her Mira Road home in Mumbai after a hard-fought battle with colorectal cancer and the shadows of depression. News of her untimely death sent waves of shock through both the Marathi and Hindi television industries, where she had endeared herself to millions with her natural acting and warm smile. As tributes pour in from co-stars, friends, and fans, it is fitting to reflect on her life, her rise to stardom, and the legacy she leaves behind.

Early Years and Foundations in Mumbai
Born on April 23, 1987, in Mumbai, Priya Marathe was the only child of supportive parents who encouraged her to pursue both education and her creative passions. She attended A. K. Joshi School, where her teachers first noticed her flair for performance during school plays and cultural functions. After completing her secondary education, she graduated with a bachelor’s degree from P. N. Bandodkar College, balancing academics with the beginnings of her acting aspirations. Those early years were marked by a studious dedication and a quiet resolve to make her dream of acting a reality.

Breaking into Marathi Television: 2005–2008
Priya’s professional career began in 2005 when she landed a small but memorable role in the Zee Marathi serial Ya Sukhano Yaha. Though her screen time was limited, viewers quickly recognized the sincerity she brought to her character. Between 2005 and 2008, she became a regular presence on Marathi television, most notably in the 2007 serial 4 Diwas Saasuche, where her portrayal of the gentle yet strong-willed Sona won her critical praise. Each successful performance in this period helped her hone her craft and build a loyal Marathi fanbase.

Venturing into Hindi Television: 2008–2009
Having established herself in the Marathi industry, Priya set her sights on Hindi television. In 2008, she joined the cast of Ekta Kapoor’s Kasam Se on Zee TV as Vidya Bali. Although the role was a supporting one, it introduced her to a wider, national audience and demonstrated her versatility in adapting to a different language and cultural milieu. The experience solidified her confidence and paved the way for the career-defining opportunity that arrived soon after.

The Breakthrough: Pavitra Rishta (2009–2014)
The real turning point came in July 2009, when Priya was cast as Varsha, the on-screen sister of Ankita Lokhande’s Archana, in the Zee TV juggernaut Pavitra Rishta. Starring alongside Ankita Lokhande and the late Sushant Singh Rajput, Priya’s nuanced performance captured hearts from the very first episode. Over a remarkable run of nearly five years, Pavitra Rishta became one of India’s most popular serials, and Priya’s portrayal of the loving, principled Varsha earned her household recognition. Viewers tuned in not just for the central love story but equally for the warmth and authenticity she brought to her scenes.

Expanding Her Range: Comedy and Supporting Roles
Following the success of Pavitra Rishta, Priya demonstrated her willingness to explore diverse genres. She joined the reality-comedy show Comedy Circus, where her spontaneous wit and ease with physical comedy impressed both judges and audiences, even though she did not take home the trophy. Simultaneously, she accepted supporting roles in other Hindi serials—Saath Nibhaana Saathiya, Uttaran, Maharana Pratap, Savdhaan India, and Bhage Re Mann—each time bringing depth and credibility to smaller parts and reinforcing her reputation as a consummate professional.

Homecoming to Marathi Serials and Cinema
Throughout her Hindi television tenure, Priya never lost touch with Marathi entertainment. She appeared in popular serials such as Tu Tithe Mee, Swarajya Rakshak Sambhaji, and Tujhech Mi Geet Gata. Her transition to the big screen included a supporting role in the 2007 Marathi film Aamhi Jeene Laga and a cameo in the Hindi comedy-drama Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji (2011). In 2017, she featured in the Marathi film T – Itar, once again proving that regardless of the medium, she could leave a memorable impression in every scene she inhabited.

Off-Screen Life: Marriage and Heartfelt Bonds
Away from the cameras, Priya found both love and steadfast support in Marathi actor Shantanu Moghe. The pair met at a social gathering in 2010, bonded over a shared passion for storytelling, and married in an intimate ceremony in 2012. Shantanu, known for his roles in Swarajya Rakshak Sambhaji and Rani Wreen of destiny, became Priya’s pillar through both triumphs and trials. Their social media pages were peppered with affectionate photos, candid interviews, and mutual encouragement, painting a portrait of a relationship built on friendship, trust, and mutual artistic respect.

Private Struggles: Depression and Illness
In the years before her passing, Priya faced challenges that she kept largely away from the limelight. She struggled with episodes of clinical depression, a condition she briefly acknowledged in a 2023 interview, urging fans to view mental health with empathy. Then, in early 2024, a routine check-up revealed she had colorectal cancer. Determined to fight, she underwent surgery and multiple rounds of chemotherapy under the watchful care of Shantanu and her medical team. For a time, it appeared as though her characteristic resilience might see her through.

A Battle Lost to Cancer’s Relentless Advance
Despite the couple’s tireless efforts and the outpouring of goodwill from colleagues, Priya’s cancer metastasized during the summer of 2025. Friends described how she remained courageous, using her final weeks to record personal messages for family, review favorite shows, and express gratitude for a life lived with purpose. On August 31, surrounded by loved ones in the comfort of her home, Priya Marathe took her last breath. The official cause of death was listed as complications arising from colorectal cancer.

Tributes from Co-Stars and the Industry
Within hours of the news, heartfelt condolences streamed in across social media. Pavitra Rishta co-star Ankita Lokhande shared on Instagram: “Priya was more than a colleague—she was my sister. Her laughter was contagious, and her strength unmatched. I am forever grateful for the moments we shared.” Veteran Marathi director Sachin Pilgaonkar wrote: “She had a rare ability to transform simple lines into living, breathing emotions. Her loss leaves a void in our hearts and in the industry.” Fans lit candles and posted their favorite clips, ensuring her spirit continues to shine online.

The Legacy of a Diligent Performer
In a career spanning two decades, Priya Marathe appeared in over 50 television serials across two languages, several reality shows, and multiple films. She never chased stardom for its own sake; instead, she chose roles that resonated with her and that allowed her to connect honestly with audiences. Her work ethic—punctual, prepared, and ever-eager to collaborate—became the stuff of on-set legend. Emerging talents often cited her as a guiding light, admiring how she balanced humility with confidence.

Championing Mental Health Awareness
Beyond her art, Priya’s candidness about her mental health struggles broke barriers in an industry often reluctant to discuss such topics. In her final public appearance, a panel discussion on depression among performers, she spoke of therapy, self-care, and the importance of breaking the stigma. In the wake of her passing, mental health organizations have launched drives in her name to provide counseling support for aspiring entertainers and behind-the-scenes staff, ensuring that Priya’s advocacy lives on.

A Partnership that Endured
Through laughter and tears, it was clear that Shantanu Moghe and Priya Marathe’s partnership was one of mutual admiration. In a joint interview just months before her death, they spoke of planning joint creative projects and mentoring young actors. While those dreams remain unrealized, Shantanu has expressed his intention to establish the “Priya Marathe Foundation” to support cancer patients and their families, fulfilling a shared vision of giving back.

Conclusion: A Star That Shines On
Priya Marathe’s departure is a stark reminder of life’s fragility, even for those whose talent and zeal seem boundless. Yet, in the months and years to come, her performances will continue to captivate new viewers, her interviews will inspire courage in those facing similar battles, and her memory will fuel conversations about mental well-being. She lived with passion, performed with integrity, and loved without reservation. Though her final act took place too soon, the story of Priya Marathe—a gifted actress, devoted partner, and compassionate advocate—will forever hold a cherished place in the annals of Indian television history.

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