The entertainment world is still reeling from the heartbreaking news of Priya Marathe’s passing. At just 38 years old, the talented actress left us on August 31, 2025, after a valiant two-year battle with cancer. Known for her warm smile and memorable roles in both Hindi and Marathi television, Priya’s story is one of resilience, talent, and quiet strength. As we mourn her loss, let’s take a moment to celebrate her life, her achievements, and the inspiring way she faced her illness. Her journey reminds us all of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
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Who Was Priya Marathe?
Priya Marathe was a beloved figure in the Indian television industry, hailing from Maharashtra. Born in 1987, she grew up with a passion for acting that led her to become a household name. She was not just an actress but also a devoted wife to fellow actor Shantanu Moghe, whom she married on April 24, 2012. The couple shared a supportive bond, with Shantanu standing by her side throughout her health struggles. Priya was also the cousin of renowned actor Subodh Bhave, who treated her like a sister and collaborated with her on several projects.
Her personal life was marked by simplicity and close family ties. Living in Mira Road, Mumbai, Priya maintained a low profile off-screen, focusing on her work and loved ones. Even during her illness, she drew strength from her family, who provided unwavering support. Friends and co-stars often described her as calm, kind-hearted, and always ready with a joke or a laugh on set. It’s this human side of Priya that made her so relatable to fans across generations.
Her Illustrious Career in Television and Film
Priya Marathe’s career spanned nearly two decades, starting in 2005 with the Marathi show Ya Sukhano Ya. She quickly made her mark in the industry, transitioning seamlessly between Marathi and Hindi projects. Her breakthrough came with the popular Hindi serial Kasamh Se, where she showcased her acting prowess.
But it was her role as Varsha in Pavitra Rishta that truly catapulted her to fame. Playing the supportive sister-in-law to the lead characters, Priya brought depth and warmth to the character, earning her a dedicated fan base. She continued to impress in other hit shows, including:
- Bade Acche Lagte Hain as Jyoti Malhotra
- Saath Nibhana Saathiya
- Uttaran
- Bharat Ka Veer Putra – Maharana Pratap
- Marathi serials like Tu Tithe Me, Bhaage Re Mann, and Jayastute
Beyond TV, Priya ventured into films. She appeared in the 2008 Hindi movie Humne Jeena Seekh Liya and the Marathi film Ti Ani Itar, directed by Govind Nihalani, where she shared the screen with stars like Sonali Kulkarni and her cousin Subodh Bhave. She even participated in the first season of Comedy Circus, proving her versatility in comedy.
Her last project was the 2023 drama Tuzech Mi Geet Gaat Aahe, followed by Tu Metshi Navane, where she continued working despite her health challenges. Priya’s dedication to her craft was evident—she poured her heart into every role, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
The Diagnosis: Beginning of the Battle
A few years ago, Priya’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with cancer. The news came as a shock to her family, friends, and fans, as she had always seemed full of energy and life. While the specific type of cancer wasn’t publicly disclosed in detail, it was a aggressive form that required immediate and intensive treatment. Priya faced the diagnosis head-on, opting for chemotherapy and other medical interventions to fight back.
In the early stages, there were positive signs. She responded well to treatment and even returned to work, determined not to let the illness define her. Co-stars recalled how she maintained her professionalism on set, hiding her pain behind her infectious smile. However, the battle was far from easy. Chemotherapy brought side effects like hair loss, which made her self-conscious, and she preferred limited visitors during this time. Despite these hardships, Priya’s spirit remained unbroken, inspiring those around her.
Fighting with Courage: Treatment and Relapse
Priya’s fight against cancer was a testament to her inner strength. For over two years, she underwent rigorous treatments, balancing hospital visits with her passion for acting. Initially, there was hope as she showed signs of recovery, but tragically, the cancer relapsed while she was shooting for the Marathi show Tu Metshi Navane. The disease began spreading again, and her body eventually stopped responding to the treatments.
Throughout this period, Priya exhibited remarkable courage. She continued working when possible, drawing energy from her roles and the support of her husband Shantanu. Friends noted how she fought like a warrior, never complaining despite the pain. Some key aspects of her journey include:
- Initial Treatment Success: Priya underwent chemotherapy and managed to resume her career briefly, showcasing her determination.
- Relapse Challenges: The cancer’s return during filming added emotional and physical strain, but she pushed through.
- Family Support: Shantanu was her rock, handling much of the day-to-day care and shielding her from unnecessary stress.
- Emotional Toll: Hair loss and fatigue were tough, but Priya focused on positivity, often joking to lighten the mood.
Her story highlights the unpredictable nature of cancer and the need for early detection. While details on her exact treatment protocol remain private, her experience underscores the importance of regular check-ups and listening to one’s body.
Tributes and Lasting Legacy
The news of Priya’s passing at her Mira Road residence on August 31, 2025, sent shockwaves through the industry. Tributes poured in from co-stars and fans alike. Subodh Bhave, her cousin and co-actor, shared a poignant note on social media, calling her a “fighter sister” and praising her hard work and faith. He wrote, “My sister was a fighter, but finally her strength fell short. Om Shanti.”
Usha Nadkarni, her Pavitra Rishta co-star, got emotional, saying, “This age is no time to go. What happened to her wasn’t fair.” Anurag Sharma, who played her on-screen husband, remembered her as a “nice girl and great actress,” while Swati Anand highlighted her kindness and courage.
Priya’s legacy lives on through her unforgettable characters and the inspiration she provided. She taught us to face adversity with grace and to value our health. As fans, we can honor her by supporting cancer awareness initiatives and remembering her joyful contributions to entertainment. Rest in peace, Priya—you’ll be missed, but never forgotten.