The world of classic cinema said a sad goodbye this weekend. Sandhya Shantaram, a beloved actress from the 1950s and 60s, passed away at 94 years old. Her unique talent graced many iconic films, leaving a mark that movie fans still cherish today.
Many remember Sandhya Shantaram for her unforgettable roles. She starred in masterpieces like ‘Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje’ and ‘Do Aankhen Barah Haath’. Her performances in ‘Navrang’ and the Marathi film ‘Pinjra’ also remain etched in cinematic history. These films showcase her remarkable ability to capture hearts on screen.
The National Award-winning actress had been dealing with health issues related to old age. While media reports mentioned these age-related problems, the exact cause of her passing has not been shared. Her funeral took place on Saturday at Vaikunth Dham, located in Shivaji Park. The news of her death has brought a wave of sadness across the film community.
It’s worth noting that Sandhya Shantaram shared a deep connection with legendary filmmaker V. Shantaram. She wasn’t just his leading lady in many movies; she was also his wife. Their partnership, both on and off screen, produced some truly memorable works.
Director Madhur Bhandarkar was among those who paid tribute to the late star. He shared his thoughts on X (formerly Twitter). He wrote about his sorrow at losing such a great actress. Bhandarkar praised her legendary roles in films like ‘Pinjra,’ ‘Do Aankhen Barah Haath,’ ‘Navrang,’ and ‘Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje.’ He specifically highlighted her incredible talent and mesmerizing dance skills, saying they left a permanent impression on cinema. His message ended with “Om Shanti,” a traditional expression of peace.
Saddened by the passing of legendary actress Sandhya Shantaram Ji. Her iconic roles in films like #Pinjra, #DoAnkhenBarahHath, #Navrang, and #JhanakJhanakPayalBaaje will forever be cherished. Her remarkable talent and mesmerizing dance skills have left an indelible mark on the… pic.twitter.com/fOttHtmuMz
— Madhur Bhandarkar (@imbhandarkar) October 4, 2025