Ratna Pathak Shah is a highly acclaimed Indian actress and director known for her work in Hindi cinema and theatre. She gained widespread popularity for her iconic portrayal of Maya Sarabhai in the cult classic television sitcom Sarabhai vs Sarabhai. Born into a family of actors, she is the daughter of veteran actress Dina Pathak and the sister of actress Supriya Pathak. She is married to the renowned actor Naseeruddin Shah, with whom she frequently collaborates on stage productions. Her filmography includes notable performances in movies such as Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na, Kapoor & Sons, and Lipstick Under My Burkha. She is widely respected for her ability to portray complex, sophisticated, and strong-willed female characters. Throughout her career, she has been a prominent figure in the Indian theatre circuit, performing in numerous plays under the Motley Theatre Group. Her acting style is often praised for its naturalism, sharp wit, and impeccable comic timing. She has received multiple awards and nominations for her contributions to Indian entertainment. Beyond acting, she is known for her articulate views on social issues and the state of the film industry. She continues to be an active and influential presence in both mainstream and independent Indian cinema.