The 2025 edition of the Lata Deenanath Mangeshkar Awards turned into an unforgettable evening of emotion and legacy, and for acclaimed actress Sonali Kulkarni, it marked one of the most cherished milestones of her career. Honoured for her outstanding body of work that gracefully bridges the worlds of theatre and cinema, Sonali was recognised for performances that have consistently reflected emotional depth, cultural richness, and artistic integrity.
Radiating with joy and humility, Sonali shared her heartfelt reaction upon receiving the award. “I am feeling very happy. It’s one of the most important days of my life because I have never ever been honoured with such a beautiful scholarship—for me, it’s a scholarship,” she said, expressing how deeply personal and meaningful the recognition was to her.
She went on to speak fondly of the Mangeshkar family, underlining the emotional significance of receiving an award associated with their legacy. “The Mangeshkar family, who has been working with such dedication and selflessly... being a part of their family, being part of their legacy with this honour—it's like they are patting my back with appreciation that you’re doing good work. It’s a huge deal for me,” she added, her voice filled with gratitude. “For me, this is the biggest achievement of my life, so far.”
Sonali Kulkarni, known for her powerful performances across Marathi and Hindi cinema as well as on stage, has long been praised for her ability to bring authenticity and soul to her characters. From intense dramatic roles to nuanced portrayals in indie films and acclaimed theatre productions, her work continues to inspire audiences and young actors alike.
The Master Deenanath Mangeshkar Smruti Pratishthan, which has been hosting this annual tribute for over 35 years, honours individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the cultural fabric of India. With this recognition, Sonali now joins a celebrated circle of artists whose craft has left a lasting impact.
For an actress who has spent decades honing her craft with quiet excellence, this honour felt less like a career highlight and more like a heartfelt embrace from the very cultural heritage she has always upheld.