A mythological name in Indian cinema, famous makeup artist Vikram Gikwad died on May 10, 2025 in Mumbai at the age of 65. The actors are known for their unmatched talent in converting an unforgettable on-screen characters, with their death a zero in the film fraternity. Bollywood celebrities including Anushka Sharma, Ranveer Singh, Varun Dhawan and Mrinal Thakur mourned the loss and remembered them as a true artist and visionary.
Emotional farewell of Anushka, Ranveer, and Varun
Anushka Sharma took her Instagram story, shared a tribute post again and just wrote, “Rip Dada, Om Shanti,” expressing her quiet grief.
Ranveer Singh recalled the late artist, called him “Dada” and shared a pigeon – a pigeon and a broken heart – to mark his grief and respect for Gaikwad’s legacy.
Varun Dhawan, who worked closely with Gikwad during Badlapur, shared a deep emotional note:
“I was happy to work with Vikram Gikwad sir in Badlapur. He helped me to design his look, every detail. A true magician carried forward Indian cinema. Thank you you Dada. Om Shanti.”
Aamir Khan Productions and Mrinal Thakur pay tribute
Aamir Khan’s production house also released a moving statement on social media, in which the artistry was brought to films like Dangal, PK and Rang de Basanti.
“A true master – his incredible craftsmanship gave life to so many unforgettable characters on screen. Our heartfelt condolences to his family. He will remember a lot.”
Mrinal Thakur, was shaken by blind news, wrote, “Vikram Dada. I can’t really believe it,” to capture the mistrust felt in the film fraternity.
A legacy that crossed the language and style
The influence of Vikram Gaikwad is spread over Hindi, Marathi, Tamil, Bengali and Telugu cinema. He started his journey in films with Sardar and left an indelible mark with titles like 83, Uri: The Surgical Strike, 3 Idiots, Sanju, Delhi -6, Omkara, Kamini and Bhag Milkha Bhaag.
In Marathi cinema, he worked on famous historicals like Lokmanya, Fattasikast and Sher Shivraj. His talent also reached Tamil blockbusters with Ponyin Selvan and O Kadhal Kanmani and Bengali cinema.
National recognition for a master craftsman
Vikram Gikwad was awarded the National Film Award for Best Makeup Artist twice – once for The Dirty Picture (2012) and again for Jatrma (2014). The ability to translate the depth of the character through their accuracy, focus on expansion, and appearance made him one of the most respected names in the industry.
The funeral of Gaikwad was performed in the presence of his loved ones, colleagues and many personalities of the entertainment industry at Dadar, Shivaji Park Cremation in Mumbai, on Saturday at 4:30 pm.
Vikram Gikwad will not always be remembered for the characters he had helped to create, but brought him behind the curtain for passion, humility and talent. Their absence will be deeply felt, but their legacy will shine on the screen for generations to come.
