Sureka Sikri’s Journey Across Stage, Film and Television

Born in the capital city of New Delhi, Sureka Sikri spent her early years in the hill stations of Almora and Nainital, where she developed a love for literature and performance. Her academic path led her to Aligarh Muslim University, where she initially envisioned a career as a journalist. However, exposure to the dramatic arts, especially a powerful play by Ibrahim Alkazi, ignited a lasting passion for acting.

She pursued formal training at the National School of Drama, joining the institution in 1968 and graduating in 1971. The rigorous curriculum and practical experience with NSD’s repertory company equipped her with a versatile skill set that later defined her on‑screen portrayals. In recognition of her contributions to Indian theatre, she received the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1989.

Sikri’s film debut came with the comedy "Kissa Kursi Ka" (1977). Over the next four decades, she became a staple of Indian cinema, delivering memorable performances in films such as "Tamas" (1988), "Mammo" (1995), "Renuka" and "Jubeda". Her ability to embody both strong, resilient women and tender, vulnerable mothers earned her three National Film Awards for Best Supporting Actress, as well as Filmfare and Screen Awards.

Television audiences fell in love with her portrayal of the endearing grandmother in the series "Balika Vadhu". The character, popularly known as "Dadi Sa", showcased Sikri’s skill in conveying depth through subtle gestures and a distinctive speaking style, cementing her place in popular culture.

Health setbacks, including a brain stroke in 2018, did not diminish her determination. She continued to work on projects like "Ghost Stories" and the thriller "Kya Meri Sonam Gupta Bewafa Hai?" before passing away on 16 July 2021 in Mumbai, following a cardiac arrest at the age of 76. Her legacy endures across theatre, film and television, illustrating a lifelong commitment to authentic storytelling.