Nandu Madhav

WEBSERIES (ACTING)

THE SECRETS OF THE SHILEDARS

Year – 2025

Character – Prashik

Director – Aditya Sarpotdar

Scam 2003

Year – 2023

Character – Madhukar Dombe (PI)

Director – Tushar Hiranandani

TAALI

Year – 2023

Character – Ganesh’s (Gouri) Father

Director – Ravi Jadhav

HINDI FILMS (ACTING)

DAIL 100

Year – 2023

Character – Chandrakanth Pallav

Director – Renzil D’silva

CARGO

Year – 2020

Character – Nitigya

Director – Arati Kadav

SIMMBA

Year – 2018

Character – Mr. Dave (Akruti’s Father)

Director – Rohit Shetty

AKIRA

Year – 2016

Character – Inspector Rajeshwar Raai 

Director – A.R. Murugadoss

MAIN AUR CHARLES

Year – 2015

Character – Inspector Sudhakar Zhende 

Director – Prawaal Raman

DARPAN KE PICHYE

Year – 2005

Character – Aniket

Director – Rajkumar Bhan

DR. BABASAHEB AMBEDKAR

Year – 2000

Character – Sahastrabudhe 

Director – Dr. Jabbar Patel 

SHOOL

Year – 1999

Character – Lalji

Director – E.  Nivas

DAAYRAA

Year – 1996

Character – Abductor 

Director – Amol Palekar

MARATHI FILMS (ACTING)

Y

Year – 2022

Character – Dr. Purshottam 

Director – Ajit Wadikar

AAPDI THAAPDI

Year – 2022

Character – T.C. Pagare

Director – Anand Karir

PURSHOTTAM

Year – 2019

Character – Purushottam Bhapkar

Director –Rima Amarapurkar

BERIJ VAJABAKI

Year – 2019

Character – Chaudhari Sir 

Director – Raju Bhosale 

BARAYAN

Year – 2019

Character – Aniruddha’s Father 

Director – Deepak Patil

PARI HOON MAIN

Year – 2018

Character – Madhav Dighe
(Pari’s Father)

Director – Rohit Shilwant 

TAPAAL

Year – 2014

Character – Postman 

Director – Laxman Utekar 

JANA GANA MANA

Year – 2012

Character – Mr. Sontakke (Teacher)

Director –Amit Abhyankar

SHALA

Year – 2012

Character – Joshi’s Father 

Director – Sujay Dahake  

MUKTI

Year – 2012

Character – Bhanudas (Farmer)

Director – Machindra More

MARMABAND

Year – 2010

Character – Mitra

Director –Dinesh Bhonsle

HARISHCHNADRACHI FACTORY

Year – 2009

Character – Dadasaheb Phalke

Director – Paresh Mokashi 

VALU

Year – 2008

Character – Aaba 

Director – Umesh Kulkarni

ASHI DHYANESHWARI

Year – 2001

Character – Gund (Kidnapper)

Director – S.M. Ranjan

SARAKARNAMA

Year – 1996

Character – Chander Naik

Director –Shrabani Deodhar

KATHA DON GANAPATRAVANCHI

Year – 1996

Character – Sahebrao

Director –Arun Khopkar

BANGARWADI

Year – 1995

Character – Ananda Ramoshi

Director – Amol Palekar

MY THEATER (ACTING)

WADA CHIREBANDI, MAN TALYAKATHI, YUGANT (TRIOLOGY)

Year – 2005

Writer –  Shyam Manohar 

Director – Deepak Rajadhyaksha

JAWAN TRAMBAK

Year – 2000

Writer – Makarand Deshpande 

Director – Makarand Deshpande 

SHOBHAYATRA

Year – 1999

Writer – Shafat Khan  

Director –Ganesh Yadav 

FAUST
(HINDI VERSION)

Year – 1994

Writer – Gaute 

Director – Fritze Benewitz

AAMHI LATIKE NAA BOLU

Year –1994

Writer – P.L. Deshpande

Director – Vikram Watve

BAMBAI KE KAUE

Year – 1992

Writer – Shafat Khan  

Director – Bhupendra Deshmukh 

DOCTOR TUMHISUDHA

Year – 1991 

Writer – Ajit Dalvi 

Director – Chandrakant Kulkarni 

DUSARA SAMANA

Year – 1990

Writer – Satish Alekar 

Director – Wanam Kendre

GHAR GHAR

Year – 1988

Writer – Harsh Shvisharan 

Director – Harsh Shvisharan 

Samman Hous

Year – 1991 

Writer – Ajit Dalvi 

Director – Chandrakant Kulkarni 

Shivaji Underground In Bhimnagar Mohalla

Concept, lyrics by Sambhaji Bhagat.
Written by Rajkumar Tangade.
The play Shivaji Underground in Bhimnagar Mohalla was written by Shahir Sambhaji Bhagat and directed by Nandu Madhav.
It is a socio-political satire that challenges historical narratives and promotes equality.

This powerful Marathi play examines how Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s image has been used in different political and social narratives. It contrasts people’s Shivaji, who stood for justice and equality, with the Shivaji projected by power structures, often distorted for political gain.

Nandu Madhav delivers a commanding performance, guiding the audience through complex themes of history, caste, politics, and representation, often using street-theatre style, music, and powerful dialogues.

The play has been widely acclaimed for:

  • Its sharp political commentary

  • Satirical tone

  • Use of live music and folk performance traditions

SHORT FILMS (ACTING)

WEEKEND

Year – 2021

Character – Dadasaheb Nangre

Director – Arvind Gajanan Joshi 

THE DRAINAGE

Year – 2019

Character – Man

Director – Vikrant Badarkhe

Read More

AKADA
Selected In- Asian Film Festival Mumbai, Bhopal Film Festival,
Delhi Film Festival
Year – 2006
Produce And Directed 
Public Opinion Productions (POPS)

Aakada (The Hook)

This is a story of farmers who steal electricity from transmission wires by putting a tapping “Hook” at night.

During the process, we meet people and witness incidences which give an insight into the present socio-political situation of agrarian India.

This is a dark story ironically “highlighting” the plights of Indian farmers.

SHWET ANGAAR
Selected In-Asian Film Festival Mumbai & Short Film Corner
Cannes Film Festival (France) 2007 
Year – 2007
Directed 
Produce by IME 

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The Secrets of the Shiledars 2025

In the 2025 OTT series “The Secret of the Shiledars,” actor Nandu Madhav portrays Prashik, a dedicated member of the Shiledars—a secret society committed to safeguarding Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s treasures. Prashik, an archaeologist who withdrew from fieldwork after his wife’s tragic death, becomes a key ally to the protagonists, Ravi, Aditya, and Priyal. He provides them with crucial assistance in their quest to locate and protect the hidden treasures from falling into the wrong hands.

In the 2023 Hindi web series “Scam 2003: The Telgi Story”, Nandu Madhav portrays Inspector Madhukar Dombe, a pivotal character in the narrative. The series delves into the real-life ₹30,000 crore stamp paper counterfeiting scandal orchestrated by Abdul Karim Telgi. Inspector Dombe is depicted as a diligent law enforcement officer striving to unravel the complexities of the scam and bring the perpetrators to justice. Madhav’s performance adds depth to the series, highlighting the challenges faced by honest officers in a system riddled with corruption.

Taali 2023

In the 2023 Hindi-language biographical drama series “Taali,” actor Nandu Madhav portrays Inspector Dinkar Sawant, the father of the protagonist, Ganesh Sawant, who later becomes the transgender activist Shreegauri Sawant. Inspector Sawant is depicted as a strict policeman who strongly disapproves of his son’s effeminate behavior, leading to significant familial conflict. This strained relationship serves as a pivotal element in the narrative, influencing Ganesh’s decision to leave home and embark on a transformative journey toward self-discovery and activism.

Dial 100:

In the 2021 Hindi-language thriller “Dial 100,” directed by Rensil D’Silva, Nandu Madhav portrays Chandrakant Palav, also known as Chandu. He is the husband of Seema Palav (played by Neena Gupta), a woman seeking justice for her son’s death in a hit-and-run incident. Chandrakant’s character adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the emotional turmoil and complexities faced by a family grappling with loss and the pursuit of justice. The film also stars Manoj Bajpayee as Senior Inspector Nikhil Sood and Sakshi Tanwar as Prerna Sood.

 “Dial 100” premiered on ZEE5 on August 6, 2021.

Cargo 2020

In the 2019 Indian science fiction film “Cargo,” actor Nandu Madhav portrays Nitigya, a ground control officer who supervises the post-death transition services aboard the spaceship Pushpak 634A. Nitigya serves as the genial boss to Prahastha (played by Vikrant Massey), the onboard demon tasked with processing deceased individuals, referred to as “cargos,” for reincarnation. Throughout the film, Nitigya communicates with Prahastha via a CRT screen, providing guidance and occasionally introducing new assistants, such as Yuvishka (played by Shweta Tripathi), to aid in the operations.

Simmba 2018

In the 2018 Hindi-language action film “Simmba,” actor Nandu Madhav portrays Mr. Dave, the father of Aakruti Dave, a pivotal character in the narrative. Aakruti, played by Vaidehi Parashurami, is a medical student whose tragic fate becomes a central element of the plot, driving the transformation of the protagonist, Inspector Sangram “Simmba” Bhalerao, portrayed by Ranveer Singh.

Akira 2016

In the 2016 Hindi action thriller Akira, directed by A.R. Murugadoss, Nandu Madhav appears as Inspector Rajeshwar, a member of ACP Govind Rane’s corrupt police team. His portrayal contributes to the tense cat-and-mouse chase against the protagonist, adding depth to the film’s depiction of systemic corruption within law enforcement.

Main Aur Charles 2015

Nandu Madhav played Inspector Madhukar Zhende in Main Aur Charles (2015).

His character was based on the real-life police officer who arrested Charles Sobhraj in Goa.

Darpan ke pichye 2005

In the 2005 Hindi film “Darpan Ke Peechhe” (translated as Behind the Mirror), actor Nandu Madhav portrays the character Aniket. The film, directed by Rajkumar Bhan, also features Sulabha Deshpande, Omkar Lele, and Maithili Zaokar. Specific details about Aniket’s role are limited in publicly available sources. For a comprehensive understanding of his character and the film’s narrative, watching the movie would provide the most accurate insights.

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar 2000

In the 2000 biographical film “Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar,” actor Nandu Madhav portrays Gangadhar Nilkanth Sahasrabuddhe, a significant figure in Dr. Ambedkar’s movement for social reform. Sahasrabuddhe was a Brahmin activist associated with the Social Service League and a leader in the cooperative movement. He played a crucial role during the Mahad Satyagraha of 1927, where Dr. Ambedkar led a protest advocating for the rights of untouchables to access public water resources. Notably, Sahasrabuddhe participated in the public burning of the Manusmriti, symbolizing a rejection of caste-based discrimination. In the 1940s, he became the editor of “Janata,” one of Dr. Ambedkar’s newspapers, further contributing to the dissemination of ideas aimed at social equality.

Award-Winning Performances & Recognition

Malayalam superstar Mammootty delivered a powerful portrayal of Dr. Ambedkar, earning him the National Film Award for Best Actor. The film also won:

  • National Film Award for Best Feature Film in English (1999)
  • National Film Award for Best Art Direction (Nitin Chandrakant Desai, 1999)

A Lasting Legacy

In honor of India’s 70th Independence Day, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar was screened as part of the Independence Day Film Festival (2016), jointly organized by the Indian Directorate of Film Festivals and the Ministry of Defense.

This cinematic masterpiece remains a must-watch for those seeking to understand the life and philosophy of one of India’s greatest reformers.

Shool 1999

In the 1999 Hindi-language action crime film “Shool,” actor Nandu Madhav portrays Laljee Yadav, a member of the criminal-politician nexus led by the antagonist Bachhu Yadav (played by Sayaji Shinde). Laljee Yadav’s character contributes to the depiction of the deep-rooted corruption and lawlessness that the protagonist, Inspector Samar Pratap Singh (played by Manoj Bajpayee), confronts in the state of Bihar

Daayra:

In the 1996 Hindi film “Daayraa” (also known as The Square Circle), directed by Amol Palekar,

Nandu Madhav played the role of an abductor. The film explores themes of gender identity and societal norms, following the journey of a transvestite dancer and a woman who, after being abducted and assaulted, begins to dress as a man. Madhav’s character is part of the initial events that set the narrative in motion, contributing to the protagonist’s transformative journey.

Y 2022

In the 2022 Marathi-language thriller “Y,” actor Nandu Madhav portrays Dr. Purushottam, a character central to the film’s exploration of female foeticide. Dr. Purushottam is depicted as a medical professional whose practices are scrutinized by Dr. Aarti Deshmukh (played by Mukta Barve), a conscientious medical officer determined to investigate and expose unethical activities within the medical community. The film delves into the moral complexities and societal implications of their interactions, shedding light on critical issues surrounding gender discrimination.

“Y” was well-received for its thought-provoking narrative and compelling performances. Notably, it won the Maharashtra State Film Award for Best Film at the 57th Maharashtra State Film Awards. Additionally, Nandu Madhav’s portrayal earned him the Filmfare Award Marathi for Best Supporting Actor in 2023, underscoring his impactful contribution to the film.

Aapdi Thaapdi:

In the 2022 Marathi film “Aapdi Thaapdi”, directed by Anand Arun Karir, Nandu Madhav portrays Dayanand Pagare, a ticket collector known for his kind-hearted nature. His character adds warmth and authenticity to the film’s rural setting, contributing to its themes of community and compassion.

Purushottam 2019

In the 2019 Marathi-language drama film “Purushottam,” actor Nandu Madhav plays the titular role of Purushottam, the municipal commissioner of Aurangabad. The narrative follows Purushottam’s unwavering commitment to uphold laws and promote the city’s development amidst challenges such as systemic corruption and religious fanaticism. His character embodies the struggles of an honest IAS officer striving to implement positive change in a complex socio-political environment.

Directed by Rima Amarapurkar, the film also features performances by Kishore Kadam, Devika Daftardar, and Anil Nagarkar. The screenplay, co-written by Rima Amarapurkar and Uma Kulkarni, is based on a story by Dr. Purushottam Bhapkar, adding a layer of authenticity to the portrayal of bureaucratic challenges.

Berij Vajabaki:

In the 2019 Marathi film “Berij Vajabaki”, directed by Raju Bhosale, Nandu Madhav portrays Chaudhari Sir, a dedicated and principled schoolteacher at Vatsalya Gurukul. His character becomes central to the narrative when a group of self-serving parents attempts to acquire the school’s land to construct a mall, threatening the institution’s existence.

BARAYAN:

In the 2018 Marathi film “Barayan”, directed by Deepak Patil, Nandu Madhav portrays Baba, the father of the protagonist, Aniruddha. Set against the backdrop of the intense pressure surrounding 12th-grade board examinations, the film delves into the challenges faced by students and their families.Nandhu Madhav’s character embodies the typical parental concern and expectations prevalent in Indian households, navigating the fine line between support and pressure.

PARI HOON MAIN:

In the 2018 Marathi film “Pari Hoon Main”, directed by Rohit Shilwant, Nandu Madhav portrays Madhav Dighe, the father of the protagonist, Sajiri Dighe (played by Shruti Nigde).

Tapaal 2014

In the 2014 Marathi-language film “Tapaal,” actor Nandu Madhav portrays Devram, a village postman. Set in 1977, the narrative centers on Devram’s relationship with Ranga (played by Rohit Utekar), a young boy who entrusts him with a letter to his childhood friend. When Ranga realizes the letter might reach unintended hands, he seeks Devram’s help to retrieve it, highlighting the deep bond and trust between them. 

Madhav’s performance as Devram was critically acclaimed, earning him the Best Actor award at the 21st Screen Awards, which he shared with Dilip Prabhavalkar. 

Jana Gana Mana 2010

In the 2012 Marathi film “Jana Gana Mana,” actor Nandu Madhav portrays Ramchandra Sontakke, a dedicated teacher assigned to a remote tribal village school as part of the government’s ‘Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan’ initiative. Sontakke is passionate about educating children and dreams of building a nation of educated individuals. However, he faces challenges when he realizes that the handful of students attending his school are primarily there for the free midday meal rather than for education.

The film delves into Sontakke’s struggles and his relationship with his students, particularly focusing on a boy named Katu (played by Chinmay Sant). Through this narrative, the movie explores themes of education, societal development, and the personal challenges faced by educators in underprivileged areas.

Shala 2012

In the 2012 Marathi film Shala, Nandu Madhav plays the role of Mukund Joshi’s father, often referred to simply as Joshi Sir.

🎭 Role Overview – Joshi Sir (Mukund’s Father)

  • Nandu Madhav portrays a supportive and understanding father to the protagonist, Mukund.

  • His character reflects the mindset of a progressive middle-class parent in 1970s rural Maharashtra, offering gentle guidance without imposing harsh expectations.

  • His parenting style contrasts with the strict societal norms of the time, making him a positive influence in Mukund’s emotional and intellectual growth.

  • Though a relatively subtle and grounded role, it adds emotional authenticity and warmth to the coming-of-age narrative.

MUKTI:

​In the 2012 Marathi film “Mukti – The Final Freedom”, directed by Machindra More, Nandu Madhav delivers a compelling performance as Bhanudas, affectionately known as Bhana. Set in a drought-prone village in Maharashtra, the narrative follows Bhana, a determined farmer who refuses to wait for governmental promises of water supply. Instead, he takes matters into his own hands, attempting to dig a well on his 12-acre land, even resorting to the blast method on expert advice. His journey reflects the resilience and struggles of farmers facing environmental and bureaucratic challenges.

Marmabandh:

In the 2010 Marathi film “Marmabandh” (translated as Bonds of Heart), directed by Dinesh P. Bhonsle, Nandu Madhav portrays the character Mitra. The film delves into the complexities of human relationships, exploring themes of emotional connections and societal norms. Madhav’s performance as Mitra adds depth to the narrative, reflecting the nuanced portrayal of interpersonal bonds.

Harishchandrachi Factory 2009

In the critically acclaimed 2009 Marathi film Harishchandrachi Factory, Nandu Madhav plays the lead role of Dadasaheb Phalke, the father of Indian cinema.

🎬 Role Overview – Dadasaheb Phalke

  • Nandu Madhav delivers a stellar performance as Dhundiraj Govind Phalke, popularly known as Dadasaheb Phalke, the man who made India’s first full-length feature film, Raja Harishchandra (1913).

  • His portrayal captures the passion, innovation, and struggle Phalke faced while introducing cinema to India, despite societal resistance and financial hardship.

  • The role required a delicate balance of humor, determination, and vulnerability, which Nandu Madhav accomplished with charm and conviction.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

  • The film was India’s official entry to the Oscars in 2009 (Best Foreign Language Film).

  • It won Best Feature Film in Marathi at the 56th National Film Awards.

  • Nandu Madhav’s performance was widely praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, making this one of the most iconic roles of his career.

🎬 Valu (2008)

Role: Aaba
Actor: Nandu Madhav

According to the film’s official cast list, Nandu Madhav portrays “Aaba”, a respected and somewhat comical village elder who participates in the chaotic hunt to capture the sacred bull, Valu.

Role Overview:

  • Aaba is a central figure in the ensemble portrait of rural life, representing tradition and authority.

  • His character is involved in the village power dynamics and comedic conflicts surrounding the bull-catching mission.

  • Madhav’s portrayal adds depth and humor, contributing to the film’s satirical yet affectionate tone.

Ashi Gyaneshwari:

In the 2001 Marathi film “Ashi Gyaneshwari”, Nandu Madhav plays a pivotal role in a narrative that intertwines personal turmoil with societal challenges. The story centers on an ex-army officer whose daughter is kidnapped after he refuses to surrender incriminating evidence against a corrupt politician. Amidst marital discord and his subsequent arrest, the film delves into themes of justice, integrity, and the complexities of familial relationships. While specific details about Nandu Madhav’s character are limited, his involvement in such a profound storyline underscores his commitment to impactful cinema.

Role: Chander Naik
Director: Shrabani Deodhar

In Sarkarnama, Nandu Madhav portrays Chander Naik, the brother of Smita (played by Smita Oak), immersed in a politically charged narrative. Chander’s character adds a personal dimension to the story set against corruption and a dam-collapse crisis.

Katha Don Ganpatravanchi:

​In the 1996 Marathi film “Katha Don Ganpatravanchi” (The Tale of Two Ganpatraos), directed by Arun Khopkar, Nandu Madhav portrays the character Sahebrao. Set in the 1960s in the coastal village of Akkadgaon, the film narrates the story of two lifelong friends, Ganpatrao Turay-Patil and Ganpatrao Moray-Patil, whose bond deteriorates over time due to a trivial disagreement. Nandhu Madhav’s role as Sahebrao contributes to the intricate depiction of village life and the complexities of human relationships.

Bangarwadi 1995

In Bangarwadi, Nandu Madhav portrayed Ananda Ramoshi, a young man from the Ramoshi community, in a story set in a drought-stricken village of rural Maharashtra during the 1940s. His character reflects the socio-economic and caste realities of the time, offering a grounded and empathetic presence in the narrative.

Though a supporting role, Ananda’s character stands as a subtle yet impactful representation of a marginalized voice within the village, adding depth to the film’s core themes of education, resilience, and rural transformation.

Awards & Recognition

Celebrated for its storytelling and cinematic brilliance, Bangarwadi has received numerous accolades:

  • National Film Award (1995) – Best Feature Film in Marathi
  • Maharashtra State Film Awards (1996) – Winner of 5 prestigious state awards

International Acclaim

The film has been showcased at several renowned international film festivals, earning widespread appreciation for its authentic portrayal of rural India. Notable screenings include:

  • Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, 1996
  • Birmingham International Film Festival, 1996
  • London Film Festival, UK, 1996
  • 15th FAJR International Film Festival, Iran, 1997
  • Cairo International Film Festival, Egypt, 1996
  • Bogotá International Film Festival, Colombia, 1996
  • Sarajevo Film Festival, 1996

Weekend 2021

In the 2021 Marathi short film Weekend, directed by Arvind Gajanan Joshi, Nandu Madhav appears as one of the four central characters navigating a deeply layered social critique. He is credited simply as a key member of the ensemble, contributing to the film’s exploration of caste, class, gender, and privilege through intense conversations and complex character dynamics.

Although his specific character name isn’t publicly documented, his performance helps anchor the group’s moral tension and reflective discourse, making Nandu Madhav a vital presence in this thought-provoking narrative.