A Sudden and Heartbreaking Loss
The Indian television industry is in mourning today. News has confirmed that actress Priya Marathe, best known for her endearing role as Purvi in the popular show Pavitra Rishta, passed away on Wednesday. She was 38 years old. The cause was a private battle with cancer, a fight she bravely kept away from the public eye.
Her co-stars and colleagues have shared heartfelt tributes, remembering her not just as a talented performer, but as a warm and vibrant person.
Remembering Priya Marathe: Her Role in Pavitra Rishta
For fans of the long-running Zee TV drama Pavitra Rishta, Priya Marathe was a familiar and beloved face. She played Purvi, the younger sister of the protagonist Archana, portrayed by Ankita Lokhande.
While not always in the central plot, her character was a steady and supportive part of the Karan-Deol family. Her performance brought a sense of warmth and normalcy to the screen, making her character feel like a real part of viewers’ lives every week. The show, which also starred Sushant Singh Rajput, was a defining part of Indian television in the early 2010s, and Marathe was an integral part of its success.
A Private Battle with Illness
Details about the type of cancer or the duration of her illness remain private, as Marathe and her family chose to keep this struggle out of the spotlight. This has come as a shock to many of her fans and even some within the industry.
A statement from her family requested privacy as they grieve their immense loss. They remember her as a courageous soul who faced her challenges with incredible strength and a positive spirit until the very end.
Co-Stars and Colleagues Pay Their Respects
The news of her passing prompted an immediate outpouring of grief from the television community. Her on-screen sister, Ankita Lokhande, shared an emotional post on her Instagram stories.
Lokhande wrote, “Rest in peace my beautiful Purvi. Will always remember you my darling. You fought the battle like a warrior. Om shanti.” Her message, accompanied by a heartbreak emoji, captures the profound sense of loss felt by those who knew Marathe personally.
Other actors and directors who worked with her have also taken to social media to share their condolences and memories, consistently describing her as kind-hearted, professional, and full of life.
Priya Marathe’s Legacy Beyond Television
While Priya Marathe will be forever remembered for her work in Pavitra Rishta, her legacy extends beyond a single role. She represents a generation of talented actors who contribute significantly to the stories that become a part of daily life for millions of Indians.
Her decision to keep her illness private is a reminder that celebrities, despite their public lives, are entitled to their personal dignity and space. Her strength in her final days becomes an unspoken lesson in grace and resilience.
Her passing at such a young age is a tragic loss and a sobering reminder of the pervasive reach of diseases like cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Priya Marathe’s Passing
1. What character did Priya Marathe play in Pavitra Rishta?
Priya Marathe played the role of Purvi, the younger sister of Ankita Lokhande’s character, Archana.
2. What was the cause of Priya Marathe’s death?
Priya Marathe passed away after a private battle with cancer. The specific type of cancer has not been publicly disclosed by her family.
3. How old was Priya Marathe when she died?
She was 38 years old at the time of her passing.
4. How have her co-stars reacted?
Her co-stars, including Ankita Lokhande, have expressed deep shock and sorrow. Lokhande shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, praising Marathe’s bravery and calling her a “warrior.”
5. Where can I see her work?
Episodes of Pavitra Rishta, featuring Priya Marathe’s performance as Purvi, are available on the ZEE5 streaming platform.
A Final Goodbye
The untimely death of Priya Marathe leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her and those who watched her on screen. She is remembered not for her illness, but for the joy and warmth she brought to her role and the strength she showed in her personal life.
Our deepest condolences go out to her family, friends, and all who loved her during this incredibly difficult time. Her story is a poignant call to action for all of us to appreciate our loved ones and to support ongoing cancer research and awareness.
If you or someone you know is supporting a loved one through a cancer journey, consider reaching out to organizations like the American Cancer Society or Cancer Patients Aid Association in India to learn more about resources and support.