Chhaya Kadam is a renowned Indian actress known for her impactful performances in Marathi and Hindi films. With a career spanning over a decade, she has carved a niche for herself with her powerful portrayals of strong, unconventional characters. Kadam has worked in critically acclaimed films such as Fandry (2013), Sairat (2016), Jhund (2022), and Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022), earning widespread recognition for her versatility and depth in acting.

Early Life & Career Beginnings
Born and raised in Mumbai, Chhaya Kadam grew up in a middle-class family. Her father was a mill worker, and she has often spoken about the struggles of her upbringing. Despite facing academic setbacks, including failing her 12th-grade exams, she pursued her passion for acting. She attended Sathaye College in Vile Parle, where she actively participated in theater and sports, even playing kabaddi at the national level.

Kadam’s acting journey began with Marathi theater, where she honed her craft before transitioning to films. Her debut play, Zulva, showcased her raw talent, leading to more opportunities in the industry. She made her film debut with Mi Sindhutai Sapkal (2010), followed by Singham Returns (2014), marking her entry into Bollywood.

Breakthrough & Recognition
Her breakthrough came with *Nagraj Manjule’s Fandry (2013), where she played the role of Nani, earning critical acclaim. She later collaborated with Manjule again in Sairat (2016), portraying a Hyderabadi woman running a dosa stall, a role that required her to learn Telugu. Kadam’s ability to bring authenticity to her characters made her a sought-after actress in regional cinema.

In 2018, she starred in Nude, a controversial yet highly praised Marathi film, which won her the Maharashtra State Film Award for Best Supporting Actress. Her performance in Jhund (2022) alongside Amitabh Bachchan further cemented her reputation as a powerhouse performer.

Recent Success & Future Prospects
Kadam gained international recognition in 2024 with her roles in Laapataa Ladies, Madgaon Express, All We Imagine as Light, and Sister Midnight, which premiered at Cannes Film Festival. Her ability to seamlessly transition between commercial and independent cinema has made her one of the most respected actresses in the industry.

With her unwavering dedication and exceptional talent, Chhaya Kadam continues to push boundaries, proving that authentic storytelling and powerful performances can leave a lasting impact on audiences.