Veteran actor Ashok Saraf, 78, appeared at the ongoing Cannes Film Festival with his wife, actor Nivedita Saraf, as part of a Marathi entertainment delegation. Their visit put Maharashtrian cinema and culture in focus at an international platform and gave the festival a visible Marathi presence.
The delegation also included actor Prajakta Mali, YouTuber Ankita Walawalkar, podcaster Jayanti Waghdhare and filmmaker Kedar Joshi. The group took part in events linked to the Indian Pavilion and later drew attention on the Cannes red carpet on May 17 when they appeared in traditional Maharashtrian outfits.
Marathi presence at Cannes
A strong Marathi presence was seen at the festival as actors, creators and filmmakers chose traditional Maharashtrian fashion for their appearance. Many of them had attended programmes at the Indian Pavilion earlier. Their red carpet appearance later became a major talking point online because of their cultural styling.
Ashok Saraf walked the red carpet in an ivory bandhgala with black trousers. Nivedita Saraf wore a floral saree with a zari-work shawl. Prajakta Mali and the other members of the Marathi delegation also appeared in traditional outfits during their visit to the international festival.
A long career in the entertainment industry
Ashok Saraf is one of the best-known names in Marathi cinema, television and theatre. His career has spanned more than five decades across film, television and stage. He is known for both comic timing and emotional performances. He became a household name through Marathi films such as Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi, Ek Daav Bhutacha, Dhum Dhadaka and Jammat Jammat.
He also worked in Hindi cinema and appeared in films such as Karan Arjun, Yes Boss, Singham and What did you love?. On television, he was widely recognised for sitcoms such as Hum Paanchwhere his performances reached audiences across India.
Recognition and honours
Apart from films and television, Saraf has remained closely associated with Marathi theatre and is regarded as one of the pillars of the industry. Over the years, he has received several honours for his contribution to Indian entertainment, including multiple Maharashtra State Film Awards. He has also been honoured with the Padma Shri for his contribution to cinema and performing arts.
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