Veteran actor Ashalata Wabgaonkar, who was reportedly suffering from Covid-19, died early this morning after a four-day battle with her illness at a private hospital in Satara.

She was 79 and had been hospitalised in a critical condition last weekend. Former Chief Minister of Goa, Digambar Kamat, confirmed the news in a tweet, paying tribute to the Goa-born actor.

"Deeply pained by the passing away of acclaimed Goan Artist Ashalata Wabgaonkar. Her splendid performances in theatre and films will keep inspiring the generations to come. My condolences to her family and fans. May her soul rest in peace," Kamat tweeted.

Ashalata has worked in over 100 Hindi and Marathi films. Her notable Hindi films include Apne Paraye, Ankush, Woh 7 Din, Ahista Ahista, Shaukeen, and Namak Halal. Her Marathi films include Umbartha, Sutradhar, and Vahinichi Maya.

Ashalata had acted in theatre too, notably the Marathi plays Chinna, Gunata Hridhya He, and Varyavarchi Varaat. She also authored a book, Gard Sabhowati.

Ashalata reportedly contracted Covid-19 a week ago while shooting for a mythological show.