After the underwhelming performance of Solva Saawan in 1979, Sridevi's return to Bollywood came via the smashing success of Himmatwala, where though Jeetendra had the title role, Sridevi's entry, song and dance routines and confident performance is was taken note. A star was re-born as she went on to work in several films that year that went on to become stellar hits. In less than a year, Bombay's filmy press crowned her the new Number One actress of cinema, usurping Rekha, who seemed to have no problems with passing the baton.
We need to do a deep dive on Rekha's empathy and kindness to innumerable starlets, actresses and newcomers as there are so many stories of her generosity, advice and direction that many have spoken about. Be it Shabana Azmi, Sridevi, or even Madhuri and Rani, none have a bad word to say about Re'.
Himmatwala, as Sridevi said, was no Mughal-E-Azam, but a hit is a hit is a hit. The movie is tepid fare with strong visuals in the colourful song and dance routines. Sridevi really appears like a temple Goddess come to life, all curves, sparkles and expressions. A hallmark film only because it was a stepping stone that boosted the career of an actress who went on to become one of the biggest stars in the country - before the age of 21!
