Veteran actress Sandhya Shantaram, wife of legendary filmmaker V. Shantaram, has passed away at the age of 87. A noted performer in both Hindi and Marathi cinema, she was celebrated for her acting and dancing skills that left a lasting impression on audiences. Fans mourned her demise by writing heartfelt condolence messages on social media.
Sandhya Shantaram passes away
The cause of her death hasn`t been revealed yet. Her family hasn`t opened up about her demise publicly. According to media reports, her last rites were performed at Vaikunth Dham in Shivaji Park.
Sandhya rose to prominence with V. Shantaram`s films in the 1950s and 60s. Among her most remembered works were Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baje in 1955, which highlighted classical dance on the big screen, followed by Do Aankhe Baraah Haath in 1957, a National Award-winning film that remains a benchmark in Indian cinema.
Tributes pour in for the late actress
Following her demise, condolences poured in from various quarters. Indian politician and cricket administrator Ashish Shelar expressed grief over her passing. He tweeted in Marathi, which translates to, “The news of the demise of renowned actress Sandhya Shantaram Ji, famed for her role in the film Pinjra, is deeply saddening. In both Marathi and Hindi cinema, she left a distinct mark on the audience through her exceptional acting and dancing skills.
Sandhya Shantaram’s filmography
She also played a pivotal role in Navrang in 1959, where her performance stood out for its innovation and music and visuals. Her performance in the song Jaa Re Hat Natkhat went on to become a cult classic in the music industry and remains a superhit even six decades after its release.
In Marathi cinema, Sandhya`s performance in Pinjra in 1972, directed by V. Shantaram, became iconic. The film was noted for its exploration of social themes, and its songs, such as Mala Laagli Kunachi Uchki, struck a chord with the audience.
The song went on to be a cult Lavani song in the Marathi industry. Pinjra also went on to achieve cult classic status in Marathi cinema, adding another milestone to her career. She became V. Shantaram`s third wife and his leading lady in several of his acclaimed productions. Their collaboration brought some of the most memorable films to Indian cinema.
