Surekha Sikri, the beloved actress who endeared herself to millions as the strict yet loving ‘Dadi’ in the iconic TV show Balika Vadhu, had an extraordinary journey that led her to the heights of success in the acting world. Born on April 19, 1945, in Delhi, Sikri’s foray into acting was almost accidental, but her talent and dedication paved the way for a illustrious career spanning over five decades.
Sikri’s early life was marked by frequent relocations due to her father’s career in the Indian Air Force. After completing her education at Aligarh Muslim University, where she developed an interest in theatre, a chance encounter with legendary acting guru Ibrahim Alkazi changed the course of her life.
Initially reluctant to pursue acting, Sikri filled out an admission form for the National School of Drama (NSD) at her mother’s insistence, and serendipitously gained entry into the prestigious institution in 1965. This decision proved to be a turning point, as she spent the next 15 years honing her craft at the NSD Repertory Company, working alongside luminaries such as Om Shivpuri, Sudha Shivpuri, and Raghuveer Yadav.
Surekha Sikri Breakthrough in Television
Surekha Sikri breakthrough came in 1988 with Govind Nihalani’s acclaimed television series “Tamas,” where her portrayal of Rajo left an indelible mark on the Indian audience. Her performance earned her the first of her three National Film Awards for Best Supporting Actress, a feat unmatched by any other actor.
After relocating to Mumbai, Surekha Sikri’s career soared, and she delivered memorable performances in films like “Sarfarosh,” “Dillagi,” “Raincoat,” “Dev D,” and “Badhaai Ho,” the latter earning her a Filmfare Award and her third National Film Award.
However, it was her role as the formidable ‘Dadi’ in the groundbreaking TV show “Balika Vadhu” that cemented her status as a household name. Her portrayal of the strict but caring matriarch, who sought to uphold tradition while navigating the complexities of societal change, resonated deeply with viewers and became an iconic character in Indian television history.
Surekha Sikri personal life was equally remarkable. She was married to Hemant Rege, with whom she had a son, Rahul Sikri, who is also an actor. Her step-sister, Manara Sikri, was the first wife of acclaimed actor Naseeruddin Shah, further solidifying her connection to the acting fraternity.
Tragically, Surekha Sikri’s life was cut short on July 16, 2020, when she succumbed to a cardiac arrest. Her passing left a void in the entertainment industry, as she was revered for her talent, professionalism, and the depth she brought to every character she portrayed.
Sikri’s journey from an accidental actor to a revered thespian is a testament to her unwavering dedication and the power of pursuing one’s passions. Her legacy lives on through her body of work, inspiring generations of actors and reminding us of the profound impact that a single performance can have on the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide.