"The TV Actress Who Angered Taxi Drivers" ..?!
Early Life & Family
Born on october 19, 1954, in mumbai, into a Marathi Brahmin family.
Daughter of renowned playwright Vijay Tendulkar.
Sisters: sushma Tendulkar and tanuja Mohite (both actresses).
Brother: Raju Tendulkar, a cinematographer.
🎬 Acting Career
Started in Marathi theatre; starred in plays like:
Giddhade
Ti Phulrani
Ek Hatti Mulgi
Moved to hindi & Marathi films in the 1980s.
Achieved national fame with Doordarshan's "Rajni" (1985), directed by Basu Chatterjee.
Known for strong roles in:
Yug
Hum Paanch
Damini
Professor Pyarelal
🎥 Film Appearances
Acted in hindi films like:
Mohra
Gupt: The Hidden Truth
Naam O Nishaan
🗣️ Social Activism & Talk Shows
Hosted bold talk shows:
The priya Tendulkar Show
Zimmedar Kaun
Advocated for women's rights and social justice.
🚖 Controversy: Taxi Drivers' Protest
A controversial episode of "Rajni" highlighted:
Overcharging
Refusal of short distances by taxi drivers
Over 500 mumbai taxi drivers protested.
Protest held at Doordarshan’s Mumbai office.
Demanded a public apology.
The incident became a national topic.
The Amul billboard featured the controversy in a cartoon ad.
📺 Impact of “Rajni”
Inspired ordinary citizens to fight corruption and injustice.
Elevated awareness of consumer rights in India.
Priya’s portrayal was seen as authentic and bold.
🕊️ Death & Legacy
Passed away on september 19, 2002, due to a heart attack, at age 47.
Prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee expressed condolences.
Remembered as a trailblazer who used tv to spark real change.