"This time, we could not save her."
On Monday, June 14, 2026, the actress Sanchita Ugale committed suicide at home. She was 22 years old.
Sanchita had made a name for herself in Indian television. She starred in shows, including Kumkum Bhagya and Dilwali Dulha Le Jayegi.
She had also starred in the drama Wagle Ki Duniya – Nayi Peedhi Naye Kissey.
Sanchita also appeared in Bollywood films such as the acclaimed period drama, Chhaava (2025), starring Vicky Kaushal, Akshaye Khanna, and Rashmika Mandanna.
In the film, Sanchita played the role as Tarabai.
After her death, the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) released the following statement:
“Sanchita Ugale has gone too far, too soon.
“Her untimely departure has left her family shattered ,and the entire Indian film industry mourning the loss of a young talent whose memories will live on forever.
“At a stage when her career was steadily progressing, and she was creating a strong identity for herself in the industry, this heartbreaking development has raised serious questions that deserve a fair, transparent, and comprehensive investigation.”
The President of the AICWA, Suresh Shyamlal Gupta, called for a high-level inquiry into the circumstances of Sanchita’s death.
The statement continued: “AICWA believes that every possible angle must be thoroughly investigated before any conclusion is reached.
“In recent years, the Indian entertainment industry has witnessed several deaths and alleged suicide cases.
“In many instances, questions raised by family members, colleagues, and the public have remained unanswered.
“Therefore, it is essential that investigators examine all available evidence, circumstances, and possible angles in this case with complete transparency.
“AICWA also calls upon the Government of Maharashtra and the concerned authorities to establish a dedicated committee to examine the increasing number of deaths and mental health-related crises being reported within the entertainment industry.
“The safety, well-being, and support systems available to artists and workers must be reviewed urgently.
“Every life is precious. The truth behind this tragic incident must come out, and the family of Sanchita Ugale deserves nothing less than a fair, impartial, and thorough investigation.
“AICWA urges the authorities to leave no stone unturned and ensure that all aspects of this case are examined with complete transparency.”
Meanwhile, Sanchita’s co-star from Chhaava, Megha Sharma, paid tribute to the late actress.
She said: “I am in deep shock and out of words. [Sanchita] had some health issues and was suffering from depression since January.
“She had some personal reasons and was undergoing treatment. But she was a happy-go-lucky person.
“In fact, I met her ten days ago and took her for an audition. She was convinced that she could make it.
“Later, her phone was switched off.
“She often said that she will end her life and we all, including her mother and family, motivated her to stay positive and not think about such negative things.
“But this time, we could not save her. She loved herself.”
In a previous interview, Sanchita Ugale spoke about her attitude towards television and film.
She explained: “I have a huge respect for TV, and this is a platform that is fair to all.
“It only demands talent and hard work; no shortcuts here. It has helped me learn acting and face the camera.
“While I will continue to do TV, doing films is my goal.
“I acted in the Vicky Kaushal-starrer, Chhaava, in which I enjoyed playing the role of Tarabai.
“I have also acted in Silence 2 and Crime Aaj Kal.”
“But soon I realised that being an outsider, it would be difficult for me to have a lead role in films.
“I also have to manage my expenses in this city, like Mumbai.
“So as of now, I follow a basic rule of filtering good roles and taking up those.”
A police official revealed that nothing suspicious was found in Sanchita Ugale’s residence and no suicide note was discovered.
Sanchita’s father allegedly did not suspect anything suspicious or hold anyone responsible for his daughter’s death.
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