Tribute | The Charm and Legacy of Sridevi

In a shocking turn of events, actress Sridevi passed away last night. The legendary star, along with her family members, was in Dubai to attend a wedding. While initially, reports suggested that the actress suffered a massive cardiac arrest. However, it was only after some investigations and procedures in Dubai that the cause of her demise was stated to be 'Accidental Drowning'.

According to a news report on Indian Express, brother-in-law Sanjay Kapoor confirmed the news about Sridevi's demise. He further added, "I just landed here. I was in Dubai, and now I am flying back to Dubai. It happened around 11:00 - 11:30. I don't know anymore details yet." The actress was in Dubai to attend Mohit Marwah's wedding and was accompanied by husband Boney Kapoor and daughter Khushi. She was 54.

 With her untimely death, the actress has left behind a legacy that is simply unmatchable. The Padma Shri awardee was India's First Female Superstar in the Hindi film industry, and went to earn awards, accolades and millions of hearts across the globe. Her contribution to cinema is nothing less than a glorious chapter. In a career spanning multiple decades, Sridevi worked in several renowned films across industries and languages, including - Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam. She made her first appearance as a child artist at the age of four. Tamil film Moondru Mudichu marked her first role as an adult, where she was paired opposite two of South India's biggest superstars - Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan. Sridevi delivered some of Hindi cinema's finest gems in the 80s and 90s. With films like Chandni, Sadma, Lamhe, Mr India, Chaalbaaz among others, the actress had cemented her position as a Superstar and went on to deliver super hits, that too as the lead protagonist in most films. Of course, she was a rage down South and delivered smashing hits. She is one of the few female actors to have a great success ratio across various industries. 

The actress starred in Judaai (1997) as Kajal - a middle class wife with big dreams. Her effortless portrayal earned her rave reviews and multiple nominations. Sridevi filmed portions of this film while being pregnant with her first child. However, the actress decided to take a break after the child - Jahanvi, was born. A few years later, the actress was blessed with another child - Khushi.

After a sabbatical of close to 15 years, Sridevi made a brilliant comeback with English Vinglish (2012). As a homemaker who takes up an English speaking course and gains immense self respect in the process, the actress was appreciated by her fans and critics alike. Fans couldn't get enough of the simplicity and honesty with which she had essayed the role of Shashi Godbole. After the comeback, we also got frequent glimpses of her at red carpet events, where the stunning actress always made a splash with her stylish looks. Sridevi also turned showstopper at a jewellery fashion show in 2014 and looked every inch a goddess. Some of her recent pictures from the family wedding in Dubai created immense buzz, as Sridevi dazzled in custom Manish Malhotra outfits. Nobody would have ever thought that these would turn out to be some of her last images.

Her last release - Mom, earned her an award for Best Actress at the Zee Cine Awards 2018, apart from nominations at various award functions. There were reports doing the rounds that she was being approached for some films. She has also shot for a special appearance in Shah Rukh Khan's next - Zero. It is devastating to know that we won't get to see the charming actress on the silver screen ever again. The fact that she is no more is yet to sink in. But, her timeless classics will continue to inspire. They shall ensure her stories, performances and legacy lives on forever.

A legendary actress who ruled the silver screen with her supreme talent. A diva, who turned heads with her impeccable style and picture perfect looks. It wouldn't be wrong if we call it - The End of an Era.

"Badi Choti Hai Mulakat. Bade Afsos Ki Hai Baat...."

Rest in Peace, Chandni! 

Love,

The Dancebee