Hey everyone, welcome back to our online news portal. Today, on this somber day of August 31, 2025, we’re diving into the life of the late actress Priya Marathe, who tragically passed away at just 38 after a brave battle with cancer. The topic that’s been buzzing around is “Priya Marathe children,” and while she didn’t have any kids of her own, her story is one of love, dedication to her craft, and a warmth that touched many through her on-screen family roles. Let’s remember her not just for what she didn’t have, but for the incredible legacy she left behind in Indian television and theater. I’ll keep this simple and heartfelt, just like Priya seemed to be in her public persona.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Priya Marathe was born on April 23, 1987, in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Growing up in a vibrant city like Mumbai, she probably dreamed big from a young age, though details about her childhood are a bit sparse in the public eye. What we do know is that she kicked off her acting career in Marathi television, making her debut with the serial Ya Sukhano Ya, where she played Pavani Adhikari. This role set the stage for her to become a household name in Marathi households.
Her transition to Hindi TV was smooth, landing her the part of Vidya Bali in Kasamh Se. But it was her portrayal of Varsha in the hit show Pavitra Rishta that really skyrocketed her popularity. Varsha was the second daughter in a close-knit family, dealing with all sorts of emotional family dramas that resonated with viewers. Priya’s natural acting style made her characters feel real, like someone you might know in your own family.
Beyond TV, she dabbled in films and theater. She appeared in movies like Humne Jeena Seekh Liya (2008) as Rani Joshi and Ti Ani Itar (2017) as Madhavi. On stage, she shone in plays such as Kon Mhanta Takka Dila and A Perfect Murder. She even tried her hand at stand-up comedy on Comedy Circus Ke SuperStars, showing off her versatile side.
Marriage to Shantanu Moghe: A Love Story Without Kids
Priya’s personal life was just as captivating as her on-screen ones. She tied the knot with fellow actor Shantanu Moghe on April 24, 2012, in what seemed like a match made in heaven. Shantanu, the son of veteran actor Shrikant Moghe, shared a deep bond with Priya that lasted over 12 years until her untimely death. The couple often posted sweet moments on social media, giving fans a glimpse into their loving relationship.
Now, addressing the elephant in the room: Priya Marathe and Shantanu didn’t have any children. Despite their long marriage, they chose to focus on their careers and each other, or perhaps life had other plans. In interviews and posts, there was never any mention of kids, but their photos together radiated happiness. Priya’s Instagram, with over 638K followers, was filled with travel pics, work updates, and affectionate shoutouts to her husband – like her last post that went viral after her passing.
It’s heartbreaking to think about, especially since Priya was so young. Cancer took her too soon, and reports say she fought it valiantly for a while. Her residence in Mira Road, Mumbai, became the place where she spent her final days surrounded by loved ones.
On-Screen Family Roles: Where She Shone as a Daughter and More
Even if Priya didn’t have children in real life, her roles often put her in the heart of family stories, sometimes as a daughter, sister, or even portraying maternal figures. In Pavitra Rishta, as Varsha, she was part of a big Deshmukh family, navigating sibling rivalries and parental expectations. This show was all about sacred relationships, and Priya’s character dealt with marriage, heartbreak, and family bonds.
Here are some of her notable family-themed roles in bullet points for easy reading:
- Varsha in Pavitra Rishta: A devoted daughter who faces life’s ups and downs, including family pressures and personal growth.
- Sona Ashok Deshmukh in Char Divas Sasuche: Playing a key role in a multi-generational family saga, highlighting in-law dynamics.
- Monica Kamat in Tuzech Mi Geet Gaat Aahe: A character involved in emotional family ties, showcasing Priya’s range in negative roles too.
- Bhavani Rathod in Saath Nibhaana Saathiya: Stepping into Hindi TV again with a supportive family member role.
- Iravati in Almost Sufal Sampoorna: Often changing the typical “mother” image on screen, as Priya once mentioned in an interview.
These parts allowed her to explore themes of parenthood and childhood indirectly, even if she didn’t experience it personally.
Priya’s Views on Children and Children’s Day Posts
Though childless, Priya seemed to have a soft spot for kids, at least based on her social media. Back in 2021, she posted a fun message on Children’s Day: “Happy Children’s Day to all grownups who r still children at heart.” It was a light-hearted nod to staying young inside, complete with cute pics. Posts like these showed her playful side and perhaps a fondness for the innocence of childhood.
In her career, she aimed to redefine family roles on TV. She once talked about breaking stereotypes of mothers and daughters in serials, making them more relatable and empowered. While she never publicly discussed why she and Shantanu didn’t have kids – maybe it was a private choice or due to health issues – her life was full nonetheless. Fans often speculated, but Priya kept her personal matters close, focusing on her work and marriage.
Legacy: A Talent Gone Too Soon
Priya Marathe’s death has left the entertainment industry reeling. At 38, she had so much more to give, but her battle with cancer ended that journey today. Tributes are pouring in from co-stars and fans alike, remembering her as a talented actress and a kind soul.
Without children to carry on her name, her legacy lives through her work. Shows like Pavitra Rishta will continue to inspire, and her theater performances will be talked about for years. Perhaps she found “children” in her fans or the young actors she mentored. In a way, that’s beautiful – a life dedicated to art and love, not defined by parenthood.
If you’re a fan, revisit her shows or check out her Instagram for those heartwarming posts. Rest in peace, Priya. You touched many lives, even without little ones of your own.