Renowned actress Sandhya Shantaram, celebrated for her iconic roles in classic Hindi cinema, passed away on Saturday at the age of 92. She breathed her last at her residence in Mumbai, surrounded by family. The cause of death was age-related ailments, according to close sources.
Sandhya was best known for her collaborations with her husband, legendary filmmaker V. Shantaram, in films such as Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje (1955), Navrang (1959), and Sehra (1963). Her graceful screen presence, expressive dance performances, and ability to portray emotionally rich characters made her one of the most admired actresses of her time.
Born as Vijaya Deshmukh, Sandhya entered the film industry in the late 1940s and quickly rose to prominence under the mentorship of V. Shantaram. She was known for her dedication to the craft, often undergoing rigorous training in classical dance and performance techniques to meet the demands of her roles.
Her portrayal of Padmini in Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje earned her widespread acclaim and contributed to the film’s National Award win. In Navrang, she played a dual role that showcased her versatility and depth as an actress. Sandhya’s contribution to Indian cinema extended beyond acting, as she remained a cultural icon and inspiration for generations of performers.
Tributes have poured in from across the film industry, with actors, directors, and fans remembering her legacy and the golden era she represented. The Film & Television Institute of India (FTII) and the National Film Archive of India (NFAI) have expressed condolences and announced plans to host a retrospective of her work.
Sandhya is survived by her children and grandchildren. Her funeral will be held on Sunday at Shivaji Park crematorium, with close family and industry colleagues expected to attend.
Her passing marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, but her legacy will continue to shine through the timeless films she helped create.
