Shriya Pilgaonkar, daughter of two acting legends, is making waves in the Indian entertainment industry with her electrifying performance in the new crime thriller series Mandala Murders. As audiences binge-watch the gripping narrative, it’s clear that Shriya is no longer in the shadow of her famous parents — she’s standing firmly in her own spotlight.
Shriya Pilgaonkar in Mandala Murders
Mandala Murders, streaming now on Sony LIV, is one of 2025’s most talked-about web series. Shriya plays IAS Officer Ananya Rawat, a sharp and intuitive investigator caught in a deadly labyrinth of serial killings across North India. With quiet intensity and measured power, her performance has received rave reviews from critics and fans alike.
Her portrayal is layered — equal parts grit and vulnerability — and adds emotional depth to a dark, psychological whodunit. It’s not just a good performance; it’s a breakthrough.
Directed by Gopi Puthran (Mardaani 2), Mandala Murders follows a pattern-based serial killer who leaves cryptic clues in ancient mandala symbols. Shriya’s character, Ananya, is tasked with decoding these symbols while battling bureaucratic resistance and personal demons.
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Shriya Pilgaonkar: Behind the Scenes to the Spotlight
According to interviews, Shriya spent months preparing for the physically and emotionally demanding role. She reportedly trained with former civil servants to understand the pressures of an IAS officer’s life, bringing nuance to her performance.
Behind the camera, the creators praised her dedication. Director Gopi Puthran remarked in a press event, “Shriya brought a rare mix of calm and chaos to her role. She didn’t just act; she became Ananya.”
Meet Her Star Parents: Supriya and Sachin Pilgaonkar
Born into one of Indian television’s most beloved acting families, Shriya is the only child of Sachin and Supriya Pilgaonkar.
- Sachin Pilgaonkar is a household name with decades in Hindi and Marathi cinema as an actor, director, and singer. From child actor to multi-hyphenate entertainer, he’s won hearts for over five decades.
- Supriya Pilgaonkar, equally iconic, is known for her roles in hit TV shows like *Tu Tu Main Main* and Marathi films. Her affable screen presence has made her a favorite across generations.
Growing up in such a creative household clearly shaped Shriya’s passion — but she has taken a path distinctly her own.
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Shriya Pilgaonkar: Career So Far
While ‘Mandala Murders’ may be her career-defining moment, Shriya has been steadily building a portfolio across platforms and languages.
She made her acting debut with the Marathi film Ekulti Ek (2013), directed by her father. But it was her role in Mirzapur (2018) that gave her national visibility. Since then, she’s appeared in:
- The Broken News (Zee5) with Sonali Bendre
- Taaza Khabar (Disney+ Hotstar) opposite Bhuvan Bam
- Guilty Minds (Amazon Prime)
- Beecham House (ITV UK) — her international debut
Her choice of roles leans towards independent, strong-willed women, reflecting a modern sensibility that’s increasingly in demand.
