Surekha Sikri Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Movies & Achievements
Introduction
Surekha Sikri was one of India’s most respected film, television, and theatre actresses, admired for her powerful screen presence and natural acting. With a career spanning over five decades, she earned critical acclaim in theatre, parallel cinema, mainstream Bollywood, and Indian television. She was best known for her role as Daadisa (Kalyani Devi) in Balika Vadhu and her National Award-winning performance in Badhaai Ho (2018). Surekha Sikri left an indelible mark on Indian entertainment before her passing in 2021.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Surekha Sikri
- Date of Birth: 19 April 1945
- Birthplace: New Delhi, India
- Died: 16 July 2021, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Aries
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 2 inches (157 cm)
- Hair Color: Grey
- Eye Color: Black
- Build: Slim
Early Life & Family Background
Surekha was born into a family with mixed cultural roots—her father was in the Air Force, and her mother was a teacher. She grew up in Uttar Pradesh and had a keen interest in literature and performing arts.
- Spouse: Hemant Rege (passed away in 2009)
- Children: One son, Rahul Sikri
Education Journey
She graduated from Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) and later pursued drama at the National School of Drama (NSD), Delhi, where she honed her craft as a stage actress.
Theatre Career
Surekha Sikri began her acting journey with the NSD Repertory Company, performing in numerous plays across genres. She was widely respected as a stage actress before transitioning to films and TV.
Film Career
Surekha made her film debut in 1978 with Kissa Kursi Ka. She went on to act in parallel cinema and mainstream Bollywood.
Notable Films:
- Tamas (1987) – Based on Partition, critically acclaimed
- Mammo (1994) – Directed by Shyam Benegal
- Zubeidaa (2001)
- Badhaai Ho (2018) – Won the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress
Television Career
Surekha Sikri was equally successful on TV, gaining immense popularity as Daadisa in Balika Vadhu (2008–2016).
Other TV appearances:
- Banegi Apni Baat
- Ek Tha Raja Ek Thi Rani
- Saat Phere
OTT Presence
In her later years, Surekha appeared in OTT projects and short films, where her nuanced acting continued to impress younger audiences.
Awards & Achievements
- National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress (3 times):
- Tamas (1987)
- Mammo (1994)
- Badhaai Ho (2018)
- Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress: Badhaai Ho
- Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1989) for her contribution to theatre
- Numerous TV awards for Balika Vadhu
Records & Milestones
- One of the few Indian actresses to win 3 National Film Awards
- A career spanning theatre, TV, parallel cinema, and Bollywood
- Iconic portrayal of elderly matriarchs with unmatched depth
Later Life & Passing
Surekha Sikri suffered from health issues, including a paralytic stroke in 2018. She passed away on 16 July 2021 at the age of 76 due to cardiac arrest. Her death was a huge loss to Indian cinema and theatre.
Legacy & Influence
Surekha Sikri is remembered as a legendary actress whose dedication to the craft of acting inspired generations. From stage to screen, she portrayed characters with honesty, leaving behind a rich legacy.
