Surekha Punekar is an Indian Lavani dancer, folk singer, stage director, and actress from Kavathe Ekand, Sangli district, Maharashtra. Born into a poor family, she worked as a domestic maid in her early years - cleaning dishes and washing clothes - to support herself, all while nurturing a passion for Lavani, the traditional Maharashtrian folk dance. In her initial days as an artist, she performed in Tamasha troupes with lavanis written by poet Bashir Momin Kavathekar, then co-founded a Tamasha troupe with her sister Lata Punekar, supported by Baba Pathan and Kavathekar. When that venture did not succeed, she launched the stage show Natarangi Nar in 1998 - initially performing for audiences as small as three people, but eventually growing the show into a widely celebrated Lavani spectacle. She won first prize at the renowned Akluj Lavani Mahotsav, which transformed her career. She has performed Lavani shows across India and even in the USA. In 2011, she made her directing debut with the Marathi stage show Nashikchi Naar. She made her TV debut with Eka Peksha Ek Apsara Aali (Colors Marathi) and has judged Lavani-oriented dance reality shows including Apsara Ali. In 2019, there was wide speculation she might contest the Pune Lok Sabha seat on an INC ticket, though she ultimately clarified she would not. In 2019, she participated in Bigg Boss Marathi Season 2 on Colors Marathi, hosted by Mahesh Manjrekar. Her eviction was marked by an emotional Lavani performance on stage during the Grand Finale - a highlight of the evening. She was evicted in Week 6 (Day 41), finishing 12th.

Renowned Lavani artist of Maharashtra performing for 35+ years; won first prize at Akluj Lavani Mahotsav; stage show Natarangi Nar (1998-present); directing debut with the stage show Nashikchi Naar (2011); performed Lavani at USA venues; TV debut with Eka Peksha Ek Apsara Aali (Colors Marathi); Bigg Boss Marathi Season 2 contestant (2019, 12th place).

Frequently Asked