Nivedita Saraf

Nivedita Saraf (née Joshi; born 11 April 1963) is an Indian film, television and theatre actress known for her work primarily in Marathi, as well as in Hindi films. She has established herself as a prominent figure in Marathi cinema and television, widely recognised for her versatile performances and impactful contribution to the industry.

Saraf began her acting career at the age of 10 on stage and made her film debut as a child actor in the Hindi film Apnapan (1977). She gained recognition in Marathi cinema with her first leading role in Navri Mile Navryala (1984), alongside her future husband, Ashok Saraf. Her subsequent films, including Dhum Dhadaka (1985), Kashasathi Premasathi (1987), and Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi (1988), established her name as the industry's leading actress. Her performances in De Danadan (1987), Thartharat (1989), and Pheka Pheki (1989) proved her comedic timing and contributed to the success of Marathi films in the 1980s.

Saraf also appeared in Hindi films such as Narsimha (1991) and King Uncle (1993). Her role in Majha Chakula (1994), portraying a mother whose son is kidnapped, earned critical acclaim and marked her last major film before a hiatus. She returned to acting in the Marathi serial Bandhan (2006) and later made a comeback to films with Aata Ga Baya (2011) and Deool Band (2015).

In recent years, Saraf has gained popularity for her television roles, including Asawari in the hit Marathi serials Aggabai Sasubai (2019–2021) and its spin-off Aggabai Sunbai. She also portrayed Ratnamala Mohite in Bhagya Dile Tu Mala (2022–2024) and currently stars as Shubha Killedar in Aai Ani Baba Retire Hot Aahet.