SRIDEVI : A NAME THAT CANNOT BE FORGOTTEN

By Anshika Khera

Sridevi (1963–2018) was one of Indian cinema’s most iconic and versatile actresses, celebrated for her remarkable ability to portray a wide range of emotions with grace and charisma. Born Shree Amma Yanger Ayyapan in Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu, she began acting at the age of four in the Tamil film Kandhan Karunai (1967). Over her five-decade career, she worked in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi films, becoming one of the few true pan-Indian stars.

Her breakthrough in Bollywood came with Himmatwala (1983), and she went on to deliver memorable performances in classics like Sadma (1983), Mr. India (1987), Chandni (1989), Lamhe (1991), and Judaai (1997). Known as the “First Female Superstar” of Indian cinema, she redefined the image of women in mainstream films, balancing glamour with strong, complex characters.

After a 15-year hiatus, Sridevi made a powerful comeback with English Vinglish (2012), winning hearts across generations. Her final film, Mom (2017), earned her the National Film Award for Best Actress posthumously.

Sridevi passed away in 2018, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire actors and filmmakers. Her timeless charm, expressive eyes, and unparalleled screen presence ensure she remains an everlasting icon of Indian cinema.