The late greats: Smita Patil and Sridevi

So sad and tragic that the gifted Smita Patil passed when she was just 31 - just before the release of the film Nazrana, co-starring Sridevi and Rajesh Khanna. While the film magazines of the time tried to insinuate the actresses didn't get along, Smita spoke at length at how wonderful Sridevi was and a great friend to her.

Smita Patil was eight years older than Sri and the contemporaries were leading ladies in their respective genres; in the 1980s the lines were not as blurred as they are now. Art Films vs Bollywood, there was a distinct demarcation between filmmakers and actors of the time. While Smita Patil was known for often political and song-less/dance-less art-house fare, Sridevi was already the queen of the marquee for her chart-busting numbers, masala movies and box-office clout. In bringing these polar opposites together, critics were amazed at how sure-footed Sri was in her role - forgetting that for all the glamour and sensuality the actress brought on screen, she was one hell-of-an actress with a strong portfolio in Tamil and Telugu films behind her. The two schools of thought met and matched each other brilliantly... and, quite frankly, the ladies overshadowed the fading superstar Rajesh Khanna completely in the movie.

An excerpt from a Bollywood film magazine from 1984;

"Wonder what Smita Patil and Sridevi were whispering in each others' ears during the shooting of their new untitled film (directed by Ravi Tandon) at Chandivali outdoor studios. It was obvious the two had become pals, it was also obvious that they were very happy despite the unbearable heat. After every shot, they would go into a corner, whisper in each other's ears and giggle. "Why should we tell you what we're talking about?" Smita asked. 

-- November 16-30, 1984, Filmfare