Renowned veteran actress Sulochana, known for her appearances in over 250 Hindi and 50 Marathi films, breathed her last in Mumbai on Sunday due to age-related issues. She was 94 years old.
Sulochana embarked on her career in the early 1940s with Marathi films before transitioning to Hindi cinema. She gained recognition for portraying maternal characters in notable movies such as Dil Dekhe Dekho starring Shammi Kapoor, Aadmi starring Dilip Kumar, and Jhonny Mera Naam starring Dev Anand.
Confirming her demise to Indianexpress.com, her daughter Kanchan Ghanekar stated, “She had been facing health issues associated with old age and experienced breathing difficulties. She passed away this evening at 6 pm.” As per a family statement, her final viewing (antim darshan) will take place at her residence in Prabhadevi, Mumbai. The cremation ceremony is scheduled for Monday at 5:30 pm at Shivaji Park crematorium.
Among her notable credits are films like Kora Kagaz, Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (where she portrayed Vinod Khanna’s mother), Himmatwala, and Andar Baahar (where she played Jackie Shroff’s mother).
Sulochana’s illustrious career included numerous collaborations with acclaimed actor Dev Anand. She shared the screen with him in movies such as Jab Pyar Kisise Hota Hai, Duniya, and Amir Garib, wherein she portrayed the roles of either his mother or a relative. Additionally, she enjoyed a long-standing collaboration with Rajesh Khanna, appearing in several of his films, including Bahraon Ke Sapne, Kati Patang, Mere Jeevan Saathi, Prem Nagar, and Adhikar, among others.
In recognition of her remarkable contributions to the film industry, Sulochana was bestowed with the prestigious Padma Shri award in 1999. Her notable Marathi films include Sasurvas, Vahinichya Bangdya, Meeth Bhakar, and Dhakti Jau, among others. This esteemed accolade further celebrated her talent and significant impact in the world of cinema.
Sulochana, with a career spanning over six decades, skillfully established a unique position for herself through her diverse portrayals in both Hindi and Marathi cinema, stated Pawar. Her talent and versatility were widely acknowledged, and she left an indelible mark on the industry.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed his condolences, highlighting that the film industry had lost a beloved motherly figure. He also noted that Sulochana had cultivated strong relationships with families in both the Hindi and Marathi film industries, showcasing her warm and affable nature.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described Sulochana as an evergreen artist, emphasizing the enduring impact she had made on the film industry. Her presence will be deeply missed by all those who admired her talent and contributions.
The Indian Film & TV Directors’ Association took to Twitter to express their sorrow over the passing of veteran actress Sulochana Latkar. In their tweet, they conveyed their condolences and prayers for her noble soul. They also extended their support to her grieving family, hoping that they find the strength to cope with this irreplaceable loss.
Sulochana’s remarkable contributions to the film industry were recognized with the prestigious Padma Shri award in 1999. She is survived by her daughter, Kanchan Ghanekar.
The final rites for Sulochana Latkar will be conducted tomorrow at 5 pm at the Shivaji Park crematorium in Dadar. It will be a solemn occasion to bid farewell to the revered actress.