- Born
- Died
- Height1.68 m
- Smita Patil, born in Pune, Maharashtra, India, was a highly acclaimed Indian actress known for her exceptional performances in Hindi and Marathi cinema. Regarded as one of the finest actresses in Indian cinema, Smita Patil's career was marked by her ability to portray a wide range of characters with authenticity and depth.
Smita Patil began her acting career in Marathi theater before making her film debut with the Marathi film "Shyamchi Aai" (1974). She gained attention for her breakthrough performance in Shyam Benegal's "Manthan" (1976), which marked the beginning of her collaboration with the renowned filmmaker. Smita Patil went on to work in several of Benegal's films, including "Bhumika" (1977), for which she received the National Film Award for Best Actress.
Her impactful performances in films such as "Aakrosh" (1980), "Chakra" (1981), and "Umbartha" (1982) solidified her position as one of the leading actresses in Indian cinema. Smita Patil was known for choosing roles that challenged societal norms and highlighted social issues. Her ability to infuse realism into her characters and convey emotions with authenticity set her apart.
Smita Patil also made significant contributions to parallel cinema, working with directors like Govind Nihalani ("Ardh Satya," 1983), Shyam Benegal ("Mandi," 1983), and G. Aravindan ("Chidambaram," 1985). Her collaboration with commercial filmmakers, including Ramesh Sippy in "Shakti" (1982) and Prakash Mehra in "Namak Halaal" (1982), showcased her versatility across genres.
Beyond her acting career, Smita Patil was actively involved in social and political causes. She was known for her advocacy of women's rights and her commitment to addressing issues affecting marginalized communities.
Tragically, Smita Patil's life was cut short when she passed away on December 13, 1986, at the age of 31, shortly after giving birth to her son Prateik Babbar. Despite her short-lived career, Smita Patil's impact on Indian cinema remains enduring, and she is remembered as a trailblazer who elevated the art of acting with her remarkable talent and meaningful contributions.- IMDb mini biography by: Shrinivas G. Kulkarni
- SpouseRaj Babbar(? - December 13, 1986) (her death, 1 child)
- Children
- ParentsShivajirao PatilVidyatai Patil
- RelativesVidya Malvade(Niece or Nephew)Aboli Patil(Cousin)
- Dusky Brown Skin Tone
- Naturalistic Acting Style
- Often took on Intense and Complex Roles
- Considered to be the best Indian actress of her generation together with Shabana Azmi.
- One child by Raj Babbar; her son Prateik Patil Babbar was born 28 November 1986. She died two weeks after her son's birth due to complications.
- Rajesh Khanna-Smita Patil were paired together in 6 successful super-hit films.
- Won the National Award for her sensitive portrayal in Bhumika (1977) at the age of 21 being one of the youngest recipients.
- Sister Manya Patil Seth produced the film " Dubai Return". She was involved with Dev Anand discovery Atlee Brar in 1984.
- [1985] Small cinema began with the portrayal of the real Indian woman, who happens to be very much a 'zamin ki aurat' ... 'mitti ki aurat' (woman of the earth). I am continuing to do earthy roles because I am that sort of a person myself. I was fortunate that I could extend the kind of person I am to the roles that were given to me in the beginning of my career.
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