What Memories Does Neena Kulkarni Share with Marathi Legend Asha Kale?

Mumbai, Sep 9 (NationPress) Renowned in both Bollywood and the Marathi film industry, actress Neena Kulkarni recently shared her admiration and the significant role of Marathi theatre in her life, recounting a touching memory with the illustrious Asha Kale. In an endearing post featuring a nostalgic photo with the legendary actress, Neena expressed, “My cherished Asha Tai… #ashakale… In 1970, I was cast for a role in the play Guntata Hriday He. In this production, I portrayed Asha Tai’s daughter, Mahananda, alongside Dr. Kashinath Ghanekar’s character, Babul. I performed in this role for five years, all while completing my graduation! The bond I share with Asha Tai, filled with affection and warmth, remains steadfast and unbreakable to this day.”

She continued, “Years later, Asha Tai attended my performance of Asen Mi Nesen Mi. The happiness I felt was indescribable! To me, Asha Tai has always felt like family. When family comes to see your work, only an artist can understand the flutter of excitement and nerves that arises! Asha Tai watched the play and remarked, ‘Nani, you’ve blossomed beautifully!’ She embraced me tightly, caressing my face with such tenderness—everything was conveyed in that singular gesture.”

Expressing her heartfelt gratitude, Kulkarni noted, “I genuinely feel blessed. Theatre has gifted me relationships that speak volumes without uttering a single word… connections that endlessly enrich my life. Asha Kale, Ashalata Wabgaonkar, Padma Chavan, Malati Pendharkar, Kashinath Ghanekar, Arun Sarnaik, Mandakini Bhadbade, Madhukar Toradmal… how many names can I mention? And of course, Vijaya Mehta—her name and her presence have been the zenith of my acting journey. Having her companionship has been an immense blessing.”

Reflecting on her theatrical experiences, she expressed her admiration for the Marathi theatre community. “Through Asen Mi Nesen Mi, I reconnected with many artists from my childhood. Veteran actress Suman Tai Dharmadhikari, even in her 90s, graced the play! I had shared the stage with her in Chandane Shimpit Ja back when I was in the 8th grade. I may not possess photographs of those moments, but they are vividly engraved in my heart. These bonds, this love, this appreciation—realizing that all of this has come into my life through theatre fills me with gratitude and joy. My heart is brimming with thankfulness and awe. #actorsidiosyncrasies #asenmenasenme #marathitheatre.” For context, Asha Kale is celebrated as a living icon with a career spanning over 60 years. Neena Kulkarni herself is a cherished figure in Indian theatre, television, and cinema, boasting an impressive career exceeding 45 years.

–IANS

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