Shabana Azmi and Smita Patil were two of the most talented actresses of their time, but their friendship was marred by rivalry.
The Rivalry Begins
Both actresses were favorites of acclaimed director Shyam Benegal, and they often found themselves competing for roles in his films. Shabana Azmi revealed that she was initially cast in Benegal’s ‘Manthan,’ but the role eventually went to Smita Patil. Benegal was reportedly furious with Azmi, as he had wanted her for 32 days, but she could only commit to 16 days due to her busy schedule with mainstream films.
A Complex On-Screen and Off-Screen Dynamic
The tension between Azmi and Patil became more apparent when they worked together on Mahesh Bhatt’s ‘Arth.’ Azmi played the lead role, while Patil was initially cast as a maid, a role that eventually went to Rohini Hattangadi. Patil wanted a more substantial role, but the script focused on Azmi’s character, and giving Patil more screen time would have altered the narrative. During filming, Azmi had to deliver explicit dialogues, which made her uncomfortable. Patil advised her against it, but Azmi eventually did the scene at the behest of Bhatt’s then-wife, Lorainne. This incident added to the strain between the two actresses.
The rivalry was not one-sided; both women were driven to outdo each other. Despite efforts from their husbands, Javed Akhtar and Raj Babbar, to mend their relationship, the tension between them persisted. Azmi has since expressed regret over her past behavior toward Patil, particularly the harsh words she spoke about her. After Patil’s untimely death, Azmi became a source of comfort for Patil’s parents, whom she affectionately refers to as her own. This experience has left a lasting impact on Azmi, who now wishes she had handled their rivalry differently. “What broke can’t be fixed,” she said, reflecting on the irreversible nature of their strained relationship.
Legacy and Regret
* Azmi regrets speaking poorly about Patil.
* She became a support system for Patil’s parents after her death.
* The rivalry between them was driven by their competitive nature.
* Both were talented actresses favored by director Shyam Benegal.
Azmi’s reflections offer a nuanced look at the complexities of female rivalry in the film industry. Her story is a reminder that even the most talented individuals can be affected by the pressures of competition and the consequences of their actions.