Nilu Phule 17th death anniversary: Jackie Shroff pays tribute to Marathi legend
Synopsis
On the 17th anniversary of Nilu Phule's death, Jackie Shroff shared a vintage tribute on social media for the Marathi cinema legend who appeared in over 250 films and passed away on 13 July 2009 at 78. Phule's legacy as a screen villain turned social activist remains one of Indian cinema's most distinctive stories.
Key Takeaways
Jackie Shroff paid tribute to Nilu Phule on his 17th death anniversary on 13 July , sharing a vintage photograph on social media.
Nilu Phule passed away on 13 July 2009 at the age of 78 after battling esophageal cancer .
Phule appeared in more than 250 Marathi and Hindi films over a career spanning several decades.
He was celebrated for roles as ruthless landlords, corrupt politicians, and antagonists, while also being respected as a social activist and theatre artiste.
His acclaimed films include 'Samna' , 'Sinhasan' , 'Pinjara' in Marathi and 'Mashaal' , 'Saaransh' , 'Coolie' in Hindi.
Bollywood actor Jackie Shroff paid a heartfelt tribute to legendary Marathi and Hindi cinema icon Nilu Phule on his 17th death anniversary on 13 July, sharing a vintage photograph of the late actor on social media along with the message, 'Remembering Nilu Phule ji on his death anniversary.'
A Career That Defined Marathi Cinema
Nilu Phule is widely regarded as one of the most celebrated actors in Marathi cinema and theatre. Over a career spanning several decades, he appeared in more than 250 Marathi and Hindi films, earning a reputation for his commanding screen presence and remarkable range.
He became particularly renowned for portraying ruthless landlords, corrupt politicians, cunning village heads, and antagonists — roles he inhabited with a depth that made him unforgettable. Yet beyond the villainous archetypes, Phule was equally respected as a social activist and theatre artiste, lending his voice and stature to causes beyond the screen.
Iconic Films Across Two Languages
Among his most acclaimed Marathi films are 'Samna', 'Sinhasan', 'Jait Re Jait', 'Ek Hota Vidushak', 'Pinjara', and 'Sobati'. In Hindi cinema, he left a lasting impression in films such as 'Mashaal', 'Coolie', 'Saaransh', 'Naram Garam', and 'Prem Pratigyaa', among others.
Phule's Final Years and Legacy
Nilu Phule passed away on 13 July 2009 at the age of 78 after battling esophageal cancer. His death marked the end of an era for Marathi theatre and cinema, though his body of work continues to be celebrated by filmmakers, critics, and audiences alike.
Jackie Shroff's Tribute
Jackie Shroff, who has been a part of the Hindi film industry for over four decades, is known for consistently remembering important dates and milestones of fellow artists from the Indian film fraternity. His tribute to Phule on this anniversary is consistent with that tradition. Shroff was most recently seen in 'Welcome to the Jungle', alongside Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Raveena Tandon, and Lara Dutta, among others. As Phule's 17th anniversary passes, tributes from the film fraternity serve as a reminder of the indelible mark he left on Indian cinema and stage.
Point of View
Which tend to reduce him to his screen antagonists. A fuller reckoning with his legacy would place his off-screen contributions alongside his cinematic ones.
NationPress
13 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Nilu Phule pass away?
Nilu Phule passed away on 13 July 2009 at the age of 78 after battling esophageal cancer. His 17th death anniversary was observed on 13 July 2026.
How did Jackie Shroff pay tribute to Nilu Phule?
Jackie Shroff shared a vintage photograph of Nilu Phule on social media with the message 'Remembering Nilu Phule ji on his death anniversary,' accompanied by a folded hands emoticon.
What are some of Nilu Phule's most famous films?
In Marathi cinema, his acclaimed films include 'Samna', 'Sinhasan', 'Jait Re Jait', 'Ek Hota Vidushak', 'Pinjara', and 'Sobati'. In Hindi cinema, he was known for 'Mashaal', 'Coolie', 'Saaransh', 'Naram Garam', and 'Prem Pratigyaa'.
Why is Nilu Phule considered a legend in Indian cinema?
Nilu Phule is considered a legend because of his unmatched ability to bring depth and authenticity to negative characters across more than 250 films, combined with his significant contributions as a theatre artiste and social activist over several decades.
