The legendary lavani artist Shankuntala Nagarkar passed away at the age of 66. The artist, who is the recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2008, breathed her last at her home in Nimgaon after battling cancer for several years. Remembering the talented artist, Marathi actress Mukta Barve penned a heartfelt tribute, sharing her experience watching the Lavani Queen for the first time 25 years ago.
On September 23, 2026, Mukta posted a black picture on her Instagram handle with the text, “Shakutai Nagarkar, Bhavpurn Shradhanjali…,” written on it. Along with the condolence post, she recalled the moment she first saw Shakuntala.
Mukta shared, “About 25 years ago, I saw you perform Lavani for the first time, the unforgettable experience as audience still remains in my mind. This is the power of an artist in you. I could learn a lot from you directly, in every coloured presentation you could be possessed. A heartfelt tribute.”
Fondly called Shakubai, Shankuntala is a legendary Lavani exponent and folk artist from Maharashtra, celebrated as a master of traditional Sangeet Bari and Baithakichi Lavani. She was born in 1960 into the traditional nomadic Kolhati community in Ahmednagar and inherited the lavani art form from her mother, renowned Lavani artist Chhabubai Nagarkar.
Beginning her career as a lavani artist at just 12, she dedicated over five decades to bringing Maharashtra’s folk culture into the light. She helped bring traditional Lavani to mainstream and urban audiences through acclaimed theatrical productions like Sangeet Bari, Lavani Ke Rang, and Love & Lavani. With her passing, she leaves behind an indelible legacy in Indian folk arts.
