National Award-winning makeup artist Vikram Gaikwad, regarded as one of the most celebrated names in Indian cinema, passed away on Saturday (May 10), leaving those close to him in deep mourning. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde confirmed the news and paid tribute, calling him "a magician who brought characters to life on screen."
Expressing his condolences, Shinde wrote on X, "With Vikram Gaikwad’s passing, we have lost an accomplished artist whose contribution to Indian cinema and theatre is immeasurable. On behalf of myself and the Shiv Sena party, I offer heartfelt tributes."
According to a report in Maharashtra Times, his last rites will take place at Shivaji Park Crematorium in Dadar, Mumbai, around 4.30 pm on May 10. The cause of his death is not known yet.
Gaikwad began his career in film makeup with the critically acclaimed movie Sardar and went on to lend his artistry to some of the most iconic Hindi and Marathi films.
His filmography includes Hindi blockbusters such as Panipat, Bell Bottom, Uri: The Surgical Strike, Blackmail, Dangal, PK, Super 30, Kedarnath, Thugs of Hindostan, and The Legend of Bhagat Singh.
In Marathi cinema, he worked on landmark historical dramas including Balgandharva, Ani… Dr. Kashinath Ghanekar, Lokmanya, Katyar Kaljat Ghusali, Fatteshikast, Pawankhind, and Sher Shivraj.
In theatre, Gaikwad was equally revered. He was responsible for the makeup in Janata Raja, a legendary stage production based on the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
He was honoured with the National Film Award for Best Makeup Artist for a Bengali film in 2013 and went on to win the award a record seven times - a testament to his unparalleled skill in transforming actors into lifelike historical and fictional figures. Directors often praised his rare ability to bring even the most complex characterisations to life through makeup.
