New Delhi: When Sridevi made her big screen debut as a child artist nearly five decades ago, little could anyone have guessed that in the years to follow she would become an inseparable part of Indian cinema, establishing herself as the industry’s first female superstar.
However that is just what happened when the ‘Hawa Hawai girl’ floored critics and audiences alike, courtesy her unique style statement, bubbly personality and tremendous acting potential. Today, on Sridevi’s birthday, we present before you some of her most memorable films.
16 Vayathinile: Directed by Bharathiraja, ‘16 Vayanthinile’ was the first Tamil film to be released without any help from the distributors. Touted as an intense drama, the film focused on the struggles and difficulties faced by a young girl. Besides Sridevi, it also featured Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan in the lead. Interestingly, ‘16 Vayathinile’ was later remade in Telugu (‘Padaharella Vayasu’) and Hindi (‘Sola Sawan’) with Sridevi starring in both versions.
Kshana Kshanam: Boasting of some catchy music from MM Keeravani, ‘Kshana Kshanam’ highlighted how a middle girl and a thief become friends because of a strange turn of events. Released in 1991, the film proved to be a critical success, helping Sridevi bag a Filmfare award. It was directed by Ram Gopal Varma.
Meendum Kokila: Touted as a romantic-drama, this GN Rangarajan-directed film created quite a stir amongst movie buffs, thanks to its simple yet engaging storyline. Focusing on a housewife’s attempts at regaining the love of her husband, ‘Meendum Kokila’ proved to be a runaway hit at the ticket window and helped Sridevi win a Filmfare award.
Khuda Gawah: Best remembered for the crackling chemistry between Sridevi and the Amitabh Bachchan, ‘Khuda Gawah’ found tremendous critical and commercial success in India as well as in Afghanistan. Directed by Mukul S Anand, the film featured Sridevi in a double role. Interestingly, sometime ago it was reports that a sequel would soon be made.
Sadma: Regarded as one of the all time classics of Hindi cinema and directed by Balu Mahendra, ‘Sadma’ featured Sridevi in the role of a mentally challenged young girl. Interestingly, Sridevi’s role was initially offered to Dimple Kapadia but she said no to it owing to her busy schedule. Moreover, ‘Sadma’ was a remake of ‘Moondram Pirai’.
Chaalbaaz: Serving as strong proof of Sridevi’s versatility as a performer, ‘Chaalbaaz’ featured her in a double role. A remake of the Hema Malini starrer ‘Seeta Aur Geeta’ , it proved to be a major critical and commercial success. Touted as a comedy, it also featured Sunny Deol and Rajinikanth in pivotal roles.
Mr India: Featuring some stellar performances from Sridevi and Anil Kapoor, ‘Mr India’ created quite a stir in the industry because of its catchy numbers and unique plot. Touted as a science fiction-drama, it highlighted the adventures of a common man-turned-superhero. A major commercial success, the film helped the actress win a special Filmfare award in 1988.
Nagina: Often described as one of the finest heroine-centric films of the 1980’s, ‘Nagina’ saw Sridevi essaying the role of an ‘icchadhari’ snake. Also featuring Rishi Kapoor in the lead, it is best remembered for the actress’ captivating dance moves in the climax.
Lamhe: This Yash Chopra-directed romantic drama has acquired a cult status over the years despite being a commercial failure. Released in 1991, ‘Lamhe’ boasted of a bold storyline which touched upon the seldom discussed topic of incest.
English Vinglish: Making a comeback to the big screen after a gap of 15 years, Sridevi proved that time had not taken a toll on her acting abilities and delivered a gripping performance. Produced by R Balki, the film was shot in Hindi as well as Tamil with a slightly different cast.
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