Famous theatre artist and filmmaker, Yashwant Sardeshpande, passed away at the age of 62 on September 29, 2025. The actor had a heart attack and was in Dharwad earlier till September 28, 2025. He had performed a play over there and had come to Bangalore on September 29, 2025, when he was then taken to Fortis Hospital after suffering a heart attack. It was at 10 a.m., unfortunately, that the actor passed away.
Yashwant was a well-known name in the Kannada film, movie and TV domain. For years, he had carved out a niche for himself as an actor, director, cultural organiser, and playwright. His work has been deeply rooted in the folk traditions of North Karnataka and has been appreciated for showcasing lifestyle, humour, and satire to a wider audience through media and theatre. However, here’s more to know about Yashwant, particularly his love for theatre and the performing arts.
Who was the late Kannada film star, Yashwant Sardeshpande?
Yashwant was born in a village called Ukkali, located in the Basavana Bagevadi taluk of Bijapur district, Karnataka. He had obtained a diploma in theatre arts from the famous Ninaasam Theatre Institute located in Heggodu. The filmmaker then got a certificate in cinema and drama from the famous New York University back in 1996. He always saw the theatre as a stepping stone to cinema, which for him has been the most powerful tool for cultural as well as social communication.
Yashwant’s plays often reflected the nuances of everyday life. He addressed the realities of society with the perfect dash of humour as well as sensitivity. Theatre has been the most accessible medium for him, as it has connected both urban and rural folks. Sadly, when Yashwant complained of chest pain and collapsed, he died at Forstis, Bangalore.
Yashwant Sardeshpande was married to artist, Malathi and kept a private life
Yashwant was married to Malathi, who has been a well-known artist in the movie and theatre industry. He directed more than 60 plays, and the majority of them had more than 500 performances. Returning to Yashwant’s life, Malathi is an actress in the Kannada film industry and has also appeared in TV serials as well as stage productions. The pair did not just share a personal bond, but also had a professional one, as they frequently collaborated on artistic and cultural projects. Yashwant and Malathi’s partnership reflected their strong dedication towards storytelling and also theatre. Yashwant was more in the acting and directing roles, while Malathi always complemented his journey, adding more value to their bond together.
Do Yashwant Sardeshpande and Malti have kids?
Well, information related to whether Yashwant and Malti have kids is not known, and this shows that the pair always kept their lives private when it came to matters related to the family. The pair had a lot of love for acting, theatre, and it created a mutual growth foundation for both of them. Yashwant was fondly called ‘Nageya Sardar’ by theatre lovers and was known for his hard work as well as talent.
Yashwant Sardeshpande had received Karnataka’s highest honour award
Yashwant had acted and had also written the successful play, All the Best, apart from working in the film and television domain. His well-known works include Rashichakra, Olave Jeevana Sakshatkara, Neenaanaadre Naaneenena, Sahi Ri Sahi, Ondata Bhatraddu, Andhayuga, Sahebaru Baruttare, Miss Point, Dil Mange More, and Hingadre Dot Comedy, apart from All The Best. He also got Karnataka’s highest honour, called the Rajyotsava Award, back in 2010. It is the highest civilian honour.
Yashwant had also got the Sunfeast-Udaya Award back in 2006 for the category of Best Dialogues, all for the movie, Rama Shama Bhama. He also received the Aryabhatta Award in 2003, in addition to the Mayur Award in 2005, the Abhinaya Bharati Award in 2008, and the Rangadhruva Award, as well as the Globalman International Award, all in the same year.
Team BollywoodShaadis offers condolences to the family of Yashwant Sardeshpande.
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