Sulakshana Pandit death: Actress remained in love with her first hero till the end of her days, passed away on the same date he died, 40 years later

On November 6, veteran actress and playback singer Sulakshana Pandit passed away at the age of 71 following a cardiac arrest, as reported by PTI. The beloved artist was being rushed to Mumbai’s Nanavati Hospital when she breathed her last. Known for her enchanting voice and screen presence during the 1970s and early 1980s, Sulakshana’s life was a blend of cinematic glory and personal sorrow. Despite a flourishing career and admiration from audiences, she never married—her heart forever tied to an unfulfilled love story with legendary actor Sanjeev Kumar.

The Beginning of an Unspoken Love

Sulakshana’s path first crossed with Sanjeev Kumar on the sets of the 1975 suspense drama Uljhan, which also marked her acting debut. During this time, Sanjeev was still recovering from a painful heartbreak involving actress Hema Malini, and Sulakshana soon found herself drawn to his quiet melancholy. Their bond deepened over conversations where he would confide in her about his lost love. As she listened, she began falling for him—gently at first, then completely. Her affection grew into an enduring devotion, and she believed that someday he would return that love.

But fate had other plans. Sanjeev, unable to overcome his emotional wounds, sought solace in alcohol and eventually suffered a massive heart attack. He was flown to the United States for bypass surgery, and upon his return, Sulakshana’s affection only intensified.

In a gesture of profound sincerity, she took him to a temple and expressed her desire to marry him. Yet, Sanjeev declined her proposal. Even after his rejection, Sulakshana chose not to walk away. Reports note that she continued to stand by him, offering care and companionship until his death.

The Rise of a Multi-Talented Star

While her personal life carried silent heartbreak, Sulakshana’s professional journey was marked by remarkable achievements. In Sankalp (1975), directed by Ramesh Saigal, she delivered the soul-stirring song Tu Hi Saagar Tu Hi Kinara, composed by the legendary Khayyam, earning her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer. Her acting prowess shone in Sankoch (1976), where she portrayed Lolita in Anil Ganguly’s adaptation of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay’s Parineeta.

Sulakshana soon became a popular face in mainstream cinema, appearing in films such as Hera Pheri (1976), Apnapan (1977), Shankar Shambhu (1976), and Khandaan (1979). She shared the screen with stalwarts like Rajesh Khanna, Shashi Kapoor, and Vinod Khanna, establishing herself as one of the era’s most graceful heroines. She even ventured into Bengali cinema with Bandie (1978) alongside Uttam Kumar, further proving her versatility.

A Life Marked by Loss and Loneliness

Tragedy struck again when Sanjeev Kumar passed away prematurely in 1985. For Sulakshana, his death was a devastating blow from which she never truly recovered. Already battling emotional turmoil, she plunged into depression. Soon after, the passing of her mother compounded her grief, leaving her broken and isolated.

In an interview years later, Sulakshana reminisced about the depth of her feelings for Sanjeev, describing their connection as a bond of rare intensity. Both Cancerians by zodiac, they shared emotional sensitivity and an unspoken understanding. She accepted that Sanjeev was destined to remain alone and believed that marriage was never written in his fate—a truth she came to live with, though it left her perpetually yearning.

Incidentally, the two died on the same date - 6th November.

Later Years and Legacy

In her later years, Sulakshana was cared for by her younger sister, Vijayta Pandit, and brother-in-law, music composer Aadesh Shrivastava, who brought her to live with them in 2006.

Her filmography remains a reflection of her immense talent and versatility—from Sankoch to Dharam Kanta, Do Waqt Ki Roti, Khandaan, and Gora. Her collaborations with Sanjeev Kumar—Waqt Ki Deewar, Chehre Pe Chehra, Uljhan, and Apnapan—are cherished reminders of her grace and depth as an artist.

Though her life was tinged with melancholy, Sulakshana Pandit will be remembered for her golden voice, gentle spirit, and the enduring love that defined her both on and off the screen.