Renowned National Award-winning makeup artist Vikram Gaikwad has passed away at the age of 61 in Mumbai. Gaikwad, celebrated for his transformative work in films such as 83, Uri: The Surgical Strike, and Ponniyin Selvan, was hospitalized at Hiranandani Hospital in Powai three days ago due to blood pressure issues. His younger brother, Dr. Prasanna Paranjpe, confirmed that his condition unexpectedly worsened, leading to his passing at around 8:30 AM on May 10.
Gaikwad’s contributions to Indian cinema spanned across Hindi, Marathi, and South Indian films, earning him multiple National Awards for Best Makeup Artist. His remarkable ability to bring characters to life through makeup artistry was widely respected, with notable works in Sanju, Dangal, PK, 3 Idiots, Omkara, Balgandharva, and Katyar Kaljat Ghusali.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde paid tribute to Gaikwad, describing him as a “magician who breathed life into characters on screen”. Shinde emphasized Gaikwad’s mastery in transforming actors into historical and fictional figures, calling his passing an “irreparable loss to cinema and art”.
Gaikwad’s last rites will be performed at Shivaji Park Crematorium in Dadar. His legacy remains in the countless characters he helped shape, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
