Veteran Marathi actor Ashok Saraf, fondly known as “Ashok Mama” among fans, has added another prestigious honour to his illustrious career. After receiving the Maharashtra Bhushan and Padma Shri, the legendary actor has now been conferred with the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year – Lifetime Achievement Award 2026. Saraf received the honour in the presence of his wife and actor Nivedita Saraf, making the moment even more special.
The award was presented by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde at a grand ceremony held at the iconic Gateway of India in Mumbai on Tuesday, March 10. The event witnessed the presence of several eminent personalities from the political, social and cultural spheres.
Before accepting the award, Saraf greeted the audience with folded hands, a gesture that won the hearts of those present. Expressing his gratitude after receiving the honour, Saraf said, “I spoke just a few words… thank you. Today I am receiving yet another Lifetime Achievement award. This is not just an award, but one that gives me the courage to keep working.”
He added, “I am not alone responsible for receiving this award. My audience, my co-actors, and the people who have always supported me are equally responsible. I will never say ‘I alone did it’. I am grateful to all of you. I am also thankful to Lokmat for considering me worthy of this honour. I will always remain indebted to the Darda family. Many of the people standing on this stage have presented me awards earlier as well, and they are standing here again today – that means a lot to me.”
Speaking at the event, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde congratulated Saraf and said, “Ashok Saraf has already received many prestigious awards. Perhaps we now need to give him a special showcase to keep them all. The joy he has given audiences through films and theatre can never truly be repaid with awards alone. I congratulate him and wish that he continues to receive many more honours.”
Ashok Saraf is lovingly called “Mama” by fans and colleagues alike. Born in Mumbai in 1947, he has been active in the film industry since 1969. Along with Marathi cinema, he has also worked in several Hindi films. He made his acting debut with the film Janaki. Over the decades, he has acted in more than 300 films, including popular Marathi classics such as Aayatya Gharat Gharoba, Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi, Balache Baap Brahmachari, Bhootacha Bhau and Dhum Dhadaka. He became widely loved for his impeccable comic timing and memorable performances. Many of his films with actors Sachin Pilgaonkar and Laxmikant Berde became huge hits. Apart from films, Saraf has also made a significant mark in Marathi theatre. He has also appeared in several Hindi films, including Singham, Gupt, Koyla, Yes Boss, Karan Arjun and Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya.