Sheela, a Malayalam cinema icon, has left an indelible mark on the film industry with a career spanning six decades and over 500 films to her credit. Born into a Malayali family, her given name was Celine, but she later adopted the stage name Sheela. It was MGR, a renowned actor, who brought her into the limelight, renaming her Sheela Devi when she was just 17. She made her acting debut in Tamil films in 1962, swiftly followed by her entry into Malayalam cinema the same year.
A Legendary On-Screen Pairing
Sheela’s on-screen chemistry with actor Prem Nazir was nothing short of phenomenal. The duo starred together in an astonishing 130 films, with 50 of them becoming superhits. This remarkable feat earned them a place in the Guinness World Records. Prem Nazir himself considered Sheela his lucky charm, and their partnership was a defining feature of Malayalam cinema in the 1960s and 1970s.
Sheela’s filmography is a testament to her versatility, with appearances in around 475 films across various languages. Her contributions to the film industry have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the National Award, Kerala State Film Award, and the Lifetime Achievement Award.
A Renaissance Woman
Beyond her acting prowess, Sheela is also a talented writer, director, and painter. She has penned and directed a film, a rare achievement for a South Indian actress. Her artistic skills extend to painting, with a notable exhibition at the Le Méridien hotel, where 93 of her pieces were sold. The proceeds from the sale were generously donated to the victims of the Chennai floods.
In 1983, Sheela bid farewell to the film industry, relocating to Ootacamund, Tamil Nadu. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers. With a career marked by records, accolades, and a lasting impact on Malayalam cinema, Sheela remains an iconic figure in the world of South Indian cinema.