Vijaya Mehta dies at 91: Anupam Kher mourns theater legend, says, ‘He didn’t raise his voice, he raised your standards’ |

Vijaya Mehta dies at 91: Legend Anupam Kher mourns, says, “He didn’t raise your voice, he raised your standards” (Image credit: Instagram)

Former Indian theater director, actor and filmmaker Vijaya Mehta died Tuesday night of complications from old age. He was 91 years old.Popularly known as “Bai” in theater circles, Mehta rested at his home in South Mumbai, bringing to a close a remarkable career that helped shape modern Marathi theater and inspired generations of actors, directors and playwrights.A veteran player Anupam Kher took to social media to mourn the loss of his mentor and collaborator. In a heartfelt speech, Kher described Mehta as “one of the greatest actors India has ever produced, a unique filmmaker, and above all, a wonderful human being.”Recalling their association on the Rao Saheb and Pestonjee teams, Kher wrote that although he had already done several films at that time, each rehearsal with Mehta made him realize “the vastness of the ocean of work.”He remembered him as a teacher who encouraged rather than instructed. “He didn’t force his knowledge. He illuminated it. He never raised his voice. He raised your standards,” wrote Kher, adding that his discipline came wrapped in grace, his warmth in humility and his intelligence in simplicity.Reflecting on his death, Kher said that one of the worst things about death is that people are suddenly forced to talk about someone they loved in the past. Thanking Mehta for his generosity, love and guidance, he said he taught many actors that acting is not just about acting but about understanding life. He ended his tribute with a heartfelt “Om Shanti”.

Marathi pioneer experimental play

Mehta was one of the founders of the Maharashtra experimental group. He co-founded the popular theater group Rangayan along with the playwright Vijay Tendulkaractor Shriram Lagoo and actor Arvind Deshpande. Under his leadership, Rangayan moved away from the conventions of commercial sports and ushered in a new era of bold, social and innovative products.During his illustrious career, Mehta directed a number of popular plays, including Ek Shunya Bajirao, Barrister, Hamidabaichi Kothi, Purush, Mahasagar and Shakuntal, many of which continue to be regarded as classics of Marathi theatre. Beyond the stage, Mehta also made a long-term contribution to Indian parallel cinema. He directed popular Hindi films such as Rao Saheb and Pestonjee, both celebrated for their storytelling and powerful performances. As an actor, he played a memorable role in Party, directed by Govind Nihalani.Vijaya Mehta is survived by a daughter and two sons. Details of his last rites were awaited at the time of writing this report.