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{{Short description|Indian actress and singer (1939–2013)}}
{{Infobox person
| name = Shalini Mardolkar
| image = Bharat Bhusan and Shalini Mardolkar (cropped).jpg
| caption = Mardolkar as Sharda in ''Taqdeer'' (1967)
| birth_place = [[Mardol, Goa]], [[Portuguese India]]
| birth_date = {{birth date|1939|8|15|df=y}}
| death_place = [[Vasai, Vasai-Virar, Maharashtra]], India
| death_date = {{death date and age|2013|1|7|1939|8|15|df=y}}
| occupation = {{hlist|Actress|singer|playwright|director}}
| spouse = A. Salaam
| years_active = 1949–1990s
| known_for = ''[[Nirmon]]'' (1966)
| awards = [[Tiatr Academy of Goa|TAG]]'s "Lifetime Contribution to Tiatr Award" (2009)
}}

'''Shalini Mardolkar''' (15 August 1939 – 7 January 2013) was an Indian actress, singer, playwright, and [[theatre director|director]] known for her work in [[Hindi cinema|Hindi]], [[Konkani cinema|Konkani]] films, and ''[[tiatr]]'' productions. In the [[Konkani language|Konkani]] theatre scene, she is best known for her portrayal of [[Mother Mary]] in [[J. P. Souzalin]]'s ''tiatr Saibinnicheo Sat Dukhi''.

==Early life==
Shalini Mardolkar was born on 15 August 1939 in [[Mardol, Goa]]<ref name=":1" /> which was part of [[Portuguese India]] during the [[Portuguese Empire]] (now in India). From a young age, she showed a strong inclination towards acting.<ref name=":0" />

==Career==
Mardolkar began her artistic journey through [[Marathi theatre|Marathi]] and [[Gujarati theatre|Gujarati dramas]] during her formative years. Through her participation in these productions, directed by seasoned artists, she cultivated an understanding of the art of acting. At a young age, Mardolkar established the Shalini Songit Mandal group and showcased her talents as a [[child artist]]. Her initial foray into Marathi drama at the age of 5 was followed by endeavors in the Gujarati theater scene.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Goa loses a star |url=https://www.thegoan.net/goa-news/goa-loses-a-star/2628.html |access-date=2024-03-22 |website=The Goan EveryDay |language=en |archive-date=2024-03-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240322055319/https://www.thegoan.net/goa-news/goa-loses-a-star/2628.html |url-status=live }}</ref> As Mardolkar matured, her acting prowess reached new heights, and she gained acclaim in the realm of Marathi dramas in [[Bombay]]. Her skills extended to the Gujarati theater, where she made contributions. It was in 1949, at the age of approximately 10, that she made her debut on the [[Tiatr|Konkani stage]] in Anthony Franklin Coelho's ''[[tiatr]]'' titled ''Bhau-Bhoinn'' (Brother-Sister).<ref name=":1">{{Cite book |last=Rose |first=Joe |title=TIATR 125th Anniversary Commemorative Volume |publisher=[[Tiatr Academy of Goa]] |year=2019 |location=[[Panaji, Goa]] |pages=61}}</ref> Despite her youth, Mardolkar demonstrated talent, holding her own alongside seasoned professionals. In this production, she portrayed a lead role opposite [[C. Alvares]], who was around 29 years old at the time. Mardolkar's performance was further enriched by her [[duet]] with [[Anthony Mendes]]. Her maiden appearance left an impression on ''tiatr'' enthusiasts, thereby securing her a position in the ''tiatr'' field. It was C. Alvares who reintroduced Mardolkar to Konkani ''tiatrs'' through his own production, ''Vojem'' (Burden). This marked the beginning of her popularity among ''tiatr'' audiences, who eagerly anticipated her performances.<ref name=":2">{{Cite book |last=Mazarello |first=Wilson |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=K-1PAQAAIAAJ |title=100 Years of Konkani Tiatro |date=2000 |publisher=Government of Goa, Directorate of Art & Culture |pages=146–147 |language=en |access-date=2024-03-22 |archive-date=2024-01-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107200151/https://books.google.com/books?id=K-1PAQAAIAAJ |url-status=live }}</ref> Consequently, Mardolkar became a regular presence in ''tiatrs'' directed by ''[[tiatrist]]s'' such as [[J. P. Souzalin]], [[Jacinto Vaz]], [[Anthony De Sa (actor)|Anthony D'Sa]], [[Robin Vaz]], [[Prem Kumar (Konkani actor)|Prem Kumar]], [[M. Boyer]], [[Alfred Rose (singer)|Alfred Rose]], and others. Her versatility as an actress, coupled with her ability to portray diverse roles across a range of ''tiatrs'', solidified her as one of the popular ''tiatr'' artists of her time.<ref name=":3">{{Cite news |date=2013-01-09 |title='Dhol Mhojea Bai' will keep Shalini alive |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/dhol-mhojea-bai-will-keep-shalini-alive/articleshow/17947277.cms?_gl=1*9kitas*_ga*YW1wLVZSa1JjbUZONEdOWklrVTRJWGFieHZrbk93cUkzVHgtSENVYzdRX1FnczUzeU1fbzExekVfemw5Q04zRkJ5TF8.*_ga_FCN624MN68*MTcxMTA4NTMxMi4xNjEuMC4xNzExMDg1MzEyLjYwLjAuMA..#_ga=2.220054623.79403112.1711019726-amp-VRkRcmFN4GNZIkU4IXabxvknOwqI3Tx-HCUc7Q_Qgs53yM_o11zE_zl9CN3FByL_ |access-date=2024-03-22 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>

[[File:Anthony De Sa and Shalini Mardolkar.jpg|thumb|Mardolkar as Mother Mary (right) in J. P. Souzalin's ''Saibinnicheo Sat Dukhi'']]
Mardolkar's artistic contributions extended beyond the confines of her religious convictions. During the [[Lenten]] season, [[Liturgical drama|religious dramas]] were traditionally staged in both [[Goa]] and Bombay. A highlight in her career was her portrayal of [[Mother Mary]] in [[J. P. Souzalin]]'s religious ''tiatr'' (theater performance) titled ''Saibinnicheo Sat Dukhi'' (Our Lady's Seven Dolours), which took place in [[Mapuçá]], Goa in 1963. Mardolkar's depiction of Mother Mary garnered critical acclaim and earned her recognition within the ''tiatr'' community.<ref name=":0" /> Her performance resonated with the audience, particularly during the [[Crucifixion of Jesus|crucifixion scene]], evoking an emotional response as spectators were moved to tears. The impact of her acting was so significant that after the conclusion of the ''tiatr'', people eagerly sought Mardolkar's blessings, regarding her as a representation of Mother Mary. The audience bestowed the title "''Dukhant Bhorloli Saibinn Maim''" (The Grieving Mother Mary) upon her in recognition of her performance in the ''tiatr''. Her portrayal in ''Saibinnicheo Sat Dukhi'' was regarded as the most memorable role of her career, as she herself expressed in previous interviews.<ref name=":3" /> In addition to her acting prowess, Mardolkar possessed a singing talent. She frequently collaborated with artists such as Anthony Mendes, M. Boyer, [[Master Vaz]], Jacinto Vaz, C. Alvares, and Robin Vaz, delivering duets, [[trio (music)|trios]], and quartets.<ref name=":1" /> As her career progressed, Mardolkar had the privilege of working with directors including Jacinto Vaz, Robin Vaz, Prem Kumar, M. Boyer, Anthony D'Sa, and Alfred Rose. She showcased her comedic abilities in various ''tiatrs'', often sharing the stage with Anthony Mendes. Mardolkar's voice left a mark on [[Culture of Goa|Goan culture]], resonating in households across the region.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |title=Versatile actress Shalini no more |url=https://www.heraldgoa.in/The-Sunday-Roundtable/versatile-actress-shalini-no-more/45968 |access-date=2024-03-22 |website=oHeraldo |date=31 August 2022 |archive-date=2024-03-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240322055203/https://www.heraldgoa.in/The-Sunday-Roundtable/versatile-actress-shalini-no-more/45968 |url-status=live }}</ref> Her rendition of the popular [[lullaby]]/song "Dhol Mojea Bai" (Rock my baby) in [[Frank Fernand]]'s film ''[[Nirmon]]'' (1966) solidified her status as a singer and actress. The song, specifically composed for Mardolkar, continues to be played on [[Saregama|HMV Records]] and [[audio tape]]s.<ref name=":2" />

Mardolkar's filmography includes performances in several [[Konkani cinema|Konkani films]]. Among her popular works are the films ''Nirmon'' and ''Mhoji Ghorkarn'' (1969), both directed by her husband, [[Hindi cinema|Hindi]] film director A. Salaam. Mardolkar's portrayal of lead characters in these films, opposite actors such as [[C. Alvares]] and [[Jacinto Vaz]], captivated audiences and received recognition from film authorities for their quality.<ref name=":3" /> Mardolkar's acting credits also include a role in the film ''[[Amchem Noxib]]'' (1963). The movie ''Nirmon'' was subsequently remade in Hindi as ''Taqdeer'' (1967), with Mardolkar reprising the main role once more. Her artistic journey also encompasses the realm of video films, where she lent her talents to ''Mogachi Faxi'', a [[Konkani language|Konkani]] production produced and directed by C. Alvares. Beyond her on-screen appearances, she ventured into the realms of writing and directing, creating two ''[[tiatr]]s'' (Konkani theater productions) titled ''Sounsaracho Gaddo'' (The bullock cart of the world) and ''Korta To Bhogta'' (One who acts has to pay).<ref name=":1" /> The former gained popularity with performances staged throughout [[Goa]] during the mid-1990s. As of 1995, remaining an active participant in the Konkani stage, Mardolkar's presence was frequently seen at ''tiatrs'' by playwrights in Goa. In addition to her acting and directing endeavors, Mardolkar has performed vocals for over 50 musical compositions. She also had over 500 ''tiatr'' performances to her credit, both in her own productions and collaborations with others.<ref name=":2" />

==Personal life==
Mardolkar married [[Hindi cinema|Hindi]] film director A. Salaam, who lived in [[Bombay]].<ref name=":1" /> In 1995, Mardolkar was living with her family in [[Khar, Mumbai|Khar, Bombay]].<ref name=":2" /> According to an anecdote from 1980 by [[Konkani language|Konkani]] actor [[Premanand Sangodkar]], Mardolkar and her husband had a bungalow in [[Bandra, Bombay]] at that time.<ref>{{Cite web |title=An interesting journey to the tiatr stage |url=http://www.heraldgoa.in/m/details.php?n_id=117695 |access-date=2024-03-22 |website=oHeraldo |archive-date=2023-12-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231221154644/http://www.heraldgoa.in/m/details.php?n_id=117695 |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Awards==
Mardolkar was honored with the "best actress award" for her performance in the [[Konkani cinema|Konkani]] film ''[[Nirmon]]'' (1966) by the [[Prime Minister of India]], [[Indira Gandhi]], at the [[13th National Film Awards|State Awards for Films]]. Additionally, she was recognized with the "Lifetime Contribution to Tiatr Award" by the [[Tiatr Academy of Goa]] (TAG) in 2009.<ref name=":3" /> Mardolkar's contributions to [[Konkani language|Konkani]] ''[[tiatr]]'' were also acknowledged during the centenary celebrations of the art form in 1992 by the [[Kala Academy]] Goa.<ref name=":2" />

==Death==
Mardolkar's declining health, attributed to her advanced age, culminated in her death on 7 January 2013, at her home in [[Vasai]], [[Maharashtra]], India, at the age of 73.<ref name=":4" />

===Reactions===
''[[Tiatr]]'' critic and journalist Daniel F De Souza expressed deep regret at the death of Mardolkar, highlighting her significant influence on the stage from the 1950s to the 1980s. Despite her absence from the stage for a period, her impact, particularly as a role model for future generations, cannot be overlooked, writes De Souza. Noting her performance in [[M. Boyer]]'s ''tiatr'' ''Ekuch Rosto'' (Only One Way), De Souza emphasizes Mardolkar's portrayal of a traditional [[Hindu]] woman as her most memorable stage achievement. [[Tomazinho Cardozo]], the president of Kala Mogi, [[Candolim]], expressed his condolences, emphasizing the loss suffered by the ''tiatr'' community and the [[Konkani language]] due to Mardolkar's death. Her talent made a significant impact on the development of Konkani ''tiatr'', writes Cardozo.<ref name=":0" />

On 9 January 2013, the chairman of [[Kala Academy]], [[Vishnu Wagh]], mourned the death of Mardolkar, expressing sorrow over the loss. He praised Mardolkar as a versatile actress whose impact on the Konkani ''tiatr'' stage will be cherished by enthusiasts of the arts for a long time. Wagh emphasized that her absence has left a void in the [[Goan Konkani]] ''tiatr'' stage, highlighting that Mardolkar's contributions will always be held in high regard by the art community in [[Goa]]. The [[Tiatr Academy of Goa]] (TAG) released a statement highlighting Mardolkar's versatility as an actress and her ability to captivate audiences with her performances. Recognizing her contributions to the ''tiatr'' stage, Mardolkar received the "Tiatr Academy's Lifetime Contribution to Tiatr Award" in 2009. TAG, on behalf of the ''tiatr'' fraternity and enthusiasts, expressed condolences to her grieving family.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2013-01-09 |title=KA, TAG condole Shalini's death |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/ka-tag-condole-shalinis-death/articleshow/17947265.cms?_gl=1*1jxp8za*_ga*YW1wLVZSa1JjbUZONEdOWklrVTRJWGFieHZrbk93cUkzVHgtSENVYzdRX1FnczUzeU1fbzExekVfemw5Q04zRkJ5TF8.*_ga_FCN624MN68*MTcxMTExNDM0NC4xNjQuMC4xNzExMTE0MzQ0LjYwLjAuMA..#_ga=2.17163135.79403112.1711019726-amp-VRkRcmFN4GNZIkU4IXabxvknOwqI3Tx-HCUc7Q_Qgs53yM_o11zE_zl9CN3FByL_ |access-date=2024-03-22 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
*{{Imdb name|id=1042285}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Mardolkar, Shalini}}
[[Category:1939 births]]
[[Category:2013 deaths]]
[[Category:Tiatrists]]
[[Category:Musicians from South Goa district]]
[[Category:Actors from South Goa district]]

Shalini Mardolkar - Revision history

Niishad Shetty: started new bio!