Surekha Sikri(1945-2021)

Surekha Sikri, the revered actress, hailed from Uttar Pradesh, spending her formative years in the picturesque locales of Almora and Nainital. Born to a father in the Air Force and a mother who was an educator, Sikri's early life was shaped by a diverse and dynamic environment.

Married to Hemant Rege, her family expanded to include a son named Rahul Sikri, an accomplished artist based in Mumbai. Notably, Surekha Sikri's family ties extend to the world of cinema, as the acclaimed actor Naseeruddin Shah is her former brother-in-law. This familial connection arises from Naseeruddin Shah's first marriage to her step-sister Manara Sikri, also known as Parveen Murad.

Surekha Sikri's journey in the world of entertainment commenced with her debut in the 1978 political drama film "Kissa Kursi Ka." Her acting prowess found expression not only in Hindi and Malayalam films but also in the realm of Indian soap operas.

A graduate of the National School of Drama (NSD), New Delhi, in 1968, Sikri's illustrious career earned her several accolades, including a Filmfare Award and three National Film Awards.

A stalwart of Hindi theatre, she earned recognition with her performances in the political drama "Kissa Kursi Ka" (1977) and went on to portray impactful supporting roles in various Hindi and Malayalam films, as well as Indian soap operas.

Surekha Sikri's remarkable contributions were acknowledged with the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress on three occasions, honoring her roles in "Tamas" (1988), "Mammo" (1995), and the acclaimed "Badhaai Ho" (2018). Her versatility also shone through in the television realm, where she received the Indian Telly Award for Best Actress in a Negative Role in 2008 for her portrayal in the prime-time soap opera "Balika Vadhu." Notably, she secured the Indian Telly Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for the same show in 2011.

Beyond the screen, Surekha Sikri's impact on Hindi theater was acknowledged with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1989. However, it was her compelling performance in "Badhaai Ho" (2018) that catapulted her to renewed acclaim. She garnered widespread recognition and appreciation, clinching three prestigious awards - the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress, Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress, and the Screen Award for Best Supporting Actress - all testaments to her enduring talent and contribution to Indian cinema.