Legendary Singer-Actress Sulakshana Pandit Passes Away at 71 in Mumbai

Veteran actress and playback singer Sulakshana Pandit, aged 71, passed away late Thursday night (November 6) due to a heart attack. She breathed her last at Nanavati Hospital in Mumbai, after battling a prolonged illness. The Indian film and music industry mourns the loss of this iconic talent, known for her melodious voice and memorable screen performances.

In a poignant coincidence, she passed away on the death anniversary of the celebrated actor Sanjeev Kumar, forty years after his demise.

Sulakshana and Sanjeev Kumar had worked together in the 1975 film Uljaan. During the shoot, she fell in love with him and even proposed marriage, but was informed that she suffered from a chronic heart condition, which prevented a long-term relationship. Sanjeev Kumar passed away on November 6, 1985, leaving Sulakshana deeply heartbroken. She later admitted that his death left her mentally distressed and emotionally devastated.

Following his passing, her career faced challenges as film offers declined, and the death of her mother further impacted her both emotionally and physically. Gradually, she stepped away from the limelight and faced health and financial difficulties. She lived with her sister, actress Vijayata Pandit, and Vijayata’s husband, music composer Adesh Srivastava, who also supported her attempt at a comeback in 2007.

Sulakshana Pandit: Life and Achievements

Born on July 12, 1954, in Raigad, Chhattisgarh, Sulakshana was the niece of renowned classical singer Pandit Jasraj and sister to the famous music composer duo Jatin-Lalit. She began her musical journey at the age of nine and made her playback singing debut in 1967. Her song Tu Hi Sagar Hai Tu Hi Kinara from Sankalp (1975) won her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer. She is also remembered for her beautiful duet with Lata Mangeshkar in Taqdeer (1967).

As an actress, Sulakshana made her debut in Uljaan (1975) opposite Sanjeev Kumar. She went on to star in films such as Sankoch (1976), Hera Pheri, Apnapan, Khandaan, and Waqt Ki Deewar. She shared screen space with Bollywood legends like Rajesh Khanna, Jeetendra, Vinod Khanna, Shashi Kapoor, and Shatrughan Sinha, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema.