Kuldeep Pawar

Kuldeep Pawar (10 June 1949 – 24 March 2014) was an Indian actor in the Marathi film and theatre industry. Born in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, his grandfather worked for an electric power house started by Shahu Maharaj, while his father acted in small roles in Marathi films. Kuldeep studied at St. Xavier School and Rajaram College in Kolhapur before moving to Mumbai to pursue his acting career.

Pawar gained recognition after being cast by director Prabhakar Panshikar in the Marathi drama *Ethe Oshalala Mrutyu*, where he played Sambhaji Maharaj. His notable films include *Jhaatyache Jaale*, *Darodekhor*, *Bin Kamacha Navra*, and *Shapit*. He also appeared in the popular TV serials *"Tu Tu Main Main"* and *Paramveer*. Known for his versatility, Pawar excelled in both comic and negative roles across Marathi theatre, films, and television. His performance as 'Daddy' in the play *Rakheli* earned him the nickname among industry peers.

Pawar's extensive filmography includes titles like *Anolkhi* (1973), *Kalavantin* (1978), and *Eka Peksha Ek* (1990). He also acted in dramas such as *Ithe Oshadla Mrityu* and *Viz Mhanali Dhartil*. In addition to films, he appeared in TV serials like *Damini* and *Aakrosh*.

In his personal life, Pawar was married to Nilima, a theatre person, and had two children. He passed away on 24 March 2014 due to kidney failure at Kokilaben Hospital in Mumbai.