Veteran Actress Sandhya Shantaram Passes Away at 87
New Delhi: Veteran actress Sandhya Shantaram, renowned for her work in Hindi and Marathi cinema, passed away on October 4, 2025, at the age of 87 due to age-related issues. Throughout her illustrious career, she starred in numerous acclaimed films, with one song launching her into fame overnight.
Sandhya Shantaram was born on September 13, 1938. Her entry into the film industry began when filmmaker V. Shantaram sought new faces for his film Amar Bhoopali (1951). He was notably impressed by her beautiful voice, which reminded him of his wife, actress Jayshree.
In 1952, Sandhya made her acting debut as a singer in the Marathi film Amar Bhoopali. She continued to collaborate with V. Shantaram on several projects, including Teen Batti Chaar Raasta (1953), where she portrayed a poor girl named Kokila.
Sandhya’s romance with V. Shantaram blossomed, leading to their marriage in 1956 after he divorced his first wife, Jayashree. The couple, who had no children, shared a creative partnership that significantly influenced Indian cinema. V. Shantaram passed away in 1990 at the age of 88.
Their personal and professional chemistry shone particularly in the 1959 film Navrang, which garnered widespread acclaim. One memorable song, “Are Ja Re Hat Natkhat,” became a household favorite and continues to be celebrated during Holi festivities, highlighting its lasting impact on popular culture.
Sandhya Shantaram’s filmography includes several notable works:
- Amar Bhoopali
- Teen Batti Chaar Rasta
- Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baje
- Do Aankhen Barah Haath
- Navrang
- Pinjara
- Sehra
- Chandanachi Choli Ang-Ang Jali
She earned the Filmfare Award for Best Actress twice: first for the Marathi film Pinjara and then for Chandanachi Choli Ang-Ang Jali. Sandhya Shantaram’s legacy remains a significant chapter in the history of Indian cinema.
