Are jaa re hat natkhat, naa choo tu mera ghoonghat palat ke dungi aaj tujhe gaali re, song picturised on Sandhya way back in 1959 in film Navrang became a super hit in filmy parlance. She danced as a man and a woman in the song sung by versatile Asha Bhonsle and Mahendra Kapoor.
This song at that time brought out the exuberance and tenacity of developing India, which had gained independence only a decade back. She caught the imagination of emerging India during that phase. She literally danced into the hearts of cinema goes during a two decade long active career in films Navrang, Jhalak Jhalak payal baje, Do Ankhen Barah Haat and many others
Sandhya, a trained dancer, died at the age of 94 in Mumbai on Saturday. Her last rites were conducted at Vaikunth Dham in Shivaji Park. She was reportedly suffering from old age-related issues.
Known for her captivating performances and the ability to bring depth to every role, Sandhya left behind a legacy that defined Indian cinema’s golden era.
Married to filmmaker V Shantaram, Sandhya was both his muse and a prominent actor in her own right. She was widely recognised for her work in the Marathi classic Pinjara, which showcased her ability to convey complex emotions with ease. In Do Aankhen Barah Haath, she combined acting and dance, earning critical acclaim for her versatility.
Her career spanned multiple languages and genres. In Navrang, she delivered a memorable performance in the song Are Jaare hat Natkhat. Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje highlighted her classical dance skills, too, reflecting the cultural depth she brought to her work. Over the years, Sandhya became known for roles that bridged traditional and contemporary cinema.
The actor’s death was mourned by the film industry and fans alike. Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar took to X and wrote a heartfelt note: “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 mesmerising dance skills have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. #OmShanti #LegendaryActress #CinematicIcon.”
Most of her best works have been with her husband, the late actor-filmmaker V Shantaram. Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje is widely regarded as Sandhya’s most accomplished work.
