Original ‘Natsamrat’ Dr. Shriram Lagoo Passes Away at 92
The veteran actor made his presence felt in Indian cinema by his praiseworthy performances. He shared screen presence with eminent actors like Amitabh Bachchan and Rajesh Khanna.
Senior veteran actor and Marathi theatre stalwart Shriram Lagoo is no more. He passed away on Tuesday evening due to a cardiac arrest in his Pune home at 8 pm. He was also afflicted by Parkinson’s disease in his last years. Dr. Shriram Lagoo was born on November 16, 1927, in Satara. He explored the world of theatre while he was attending medical college. He kept his passion for theatre alive by creating a group with like-minded friends such as Bhalba Kelkar called the ‘Progressive Dramatic Association.’ Meanwhile, the actor who was pretty good in his studies completed his ENT surgery course from the University of Mumbai and continued practicing medicine in places like Pune, Tabora, and Tanzania in the sixties. That said his passion for theatre and acting was so deep that he couldn’t ignore his interests anymore. In 1969 he became a full-time actor when he made his debut in a Marathi play called ‘Oshalala Mrityu.’ He was best remembered for a play written by Kusumagraj called the ‘Natsamarat’ and eventually came to be known as the original ‘Natsamrat.’ The veteran actor made his presence felt in Indian cinema by his praiseworthy performances in movies like Inkaar, Muqaddar Ka Sikander, Sadma, Shriman Shrimati, Des Pardes and many more. He shared screen presence with eminent actors like Amitabh Bachchan and Rajesh Khanna. Dr. Lagoo had flair to perform a variety of roles albeit he was popular for the serious protagonist roles. The actor was known for his versatility too. He played the prolific role of Surya Pahilela Manus which was based on the philosopher- Socrates. In his long acting tenure, the senior actor has worked in over 100 movies and plays. According to his friends, the actor took a clear stand on many issues. The original ‘Natsamrat’ will always be remembered for his outstanding contribution and for setting high benchmarks in the world of Marathi and Indian cinema. He is survived by his wife Deepa Lagoo and son. The noted actor’s last rights will be completed as soon as his son arrives from America.
