The Indian film industry is mourning the loss of a formidable behind-the-scenes force. Dipa De Motwane, a veteran producer and mother of acclaimed director Vikramaditya Motwane, has passed away. The news prompted an outpouring of tributes, notably from actress Aditi Rao Hydari, who fondly remembered the industry icon.
A Heartfelt Farewell from Aditi Rao Hydari
Aditi Rao Hydari took to Instagram to share a series of pictures and a moving note dedicated to Dipa De Motwane. She bid farewell to the "OG" (Original Gangster), celebrating her multifaceted personality and immense contribution.
"Farewell OG… ❤️ Champion producer. Tiger mom to not just her own, Life of a set, life of a party," Hydari wrote. She further highlighted De Motwane's nurturing yet strong character, describing her as a "Feeder, scolder, nurturer with the largest heart, the warmest hugs and the time to listen. Inspiration 101." The actress signed off with a personal touch, stating, "My darling Dipa aunty, I will miss you so so so much."
A Storied Career Spanning Over Three Decades
Dipa De Motwane was a prominent figure in Bollywood with a career exceeding 30 years. Her professional profile noted her intensive work on high-quality, award-winning projects with global distribution. She brought vast experience from both big and small-budget productions to the table.
Her journey in films began as an associate producer for Leela in 2002. She also worked as a line producer on projects like The Web of the Witch (2002) and The Forest (2009). However, a defining moment in her career was collaborating with her son, Vikramaditya Motwane, on his directorial debut.
Legacy of Notable Projects and 'Udaan'
Dipa De Motwane's maiden venture as an executive producer was the critically acclaimed coming-of-age drama Udaan (2010). The film, which marked her son's directorial debut, was a landmark success. It premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival, receiving a standing ovation, and was also screened at the Giffoni Film Festival and the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles. Udaan went on to win multiple Filmfare Awards.
Her prolific career included a key role as an executive producer for Phantom Films between 2011 and 2019. At the time of her passing, she was serving as a producer for Andolan Films. Her impressive filmography as a producer includes:
- Masaan (2015)
- NH10 (2015)
- Lootera (2013)
- Trapped (2016)
- Freddy (2022)
- The Netflix series Ghoul (2018)
- The recent series Jubilee
Dipa De Motwane's passing leaves a void in Indian cinema, remembered not just for her professional excellence but also for the fierce warmth and mentorship she offered to many in the industry.
