Sridevi: The Journey of India’s First Female Superstar
Early Life and Start in Cinema
Sridevi Kapoor (born Shree Amma Yanger Ayyapan, 13 August 1963 – 24 February 2018) was
one of the most iconic and influential actresses in Indian cinema. Hailing from Sivakasi, Tamil
Nadu, Sridevi was born to Tamil father Ayyapan and Telugu mother Rajeswari, beginning her
acting career as a child at just four years old in the Tamil film "Kandhan Karunai" (1967). Over
the next decade, she established herself as a leading child artist in South Indian cinema,
appearing in movies like "Thunaivan" (1969), "Kumara Sambhavam" (1969), and several
Malayalam and Telugu productions. [1] [2] [3]
Ascent to Superstardom
Her transition to leading lady started with "Moondru Mudichu" (1976) at age 13, working with
legendary actors Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth. Sridevi then became a defining presence in
Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada films, known for her expressive eyes, versatility, and on-
screen charisma. Notable south Indian films included "16 Vayathinile" (1977), "Sigappu Rojakkal"
(1978), "Varumayin Niram Sivappu" (1980), and the acclaimed "Moondram Pirai" (1982). [3] [4] [1]
Her Hindi film debut as an adult came in "Solva Sawan" (1979), but success soared with the
blockbuster "Himmatwala" (1983), which firmly established Sridevi in Bollywood. Her dance
number "Nainon Mein Sapna" in the film became iconic, and she followed with a string of hits
such as "Mawaali," "Tohfa," "Maqsad," "Justice Chaudhury," "Masterji," "Karma," and "Mr.
India." During this time, Sridevi became the highest-paid actress in Hindi cinema, earning the
moniker of India’s “first female superstar” for her unmatched popularity and box office pull. [1] [3]
Landmark Roles and Accolades
Her versatility was showcased in films like "Sadma" (1983), where she portrayed a woman
suffering from retrograde amnesia, earning critical acclaim for her nuanced acting. "Nagina"
(1986) saw her as a shape-shifting serpent in one of Bollywood’s most beloved fantasy films.
"ChaalBaaz" (1989) is fondly remembered for her dual-role comic timing, as is "Lamhe" (1991),
"Khuda Gawah" (1992), "Gumrah" (1993), "Laadla" (1994), and "Judaai" (1997), with each film
displaying her diversity as an actress. [4] [3] [1]
Sridevi’s contributions were recognized with numerous awards, including a National Film Award,
five Filmfare Awards, two Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, a Kerala State Film Award, and a Nandi
Award. In 2013, she was conferred the Padma Shri, India’s fourth highest civilian honor. [1]
Personal Life and Lasting Legacy
Sridevi experienced both public and personal challenges. She lost her father while filming
"Lamhe" and her mother during "Judaai." Her personal life made headlines, including rumors of a
relationship with Mithun Chakraborty that ended, and subsequently her marriage to producer
Boney Kapoor in 1996. She was a devoted mother to daughters Janhvi and Khushi, stepping
back from films for several years to raise her children. [5]
In 2012, Sridevi made a triumphant comeback with "English Vinglish," resonating with global
audiences. Her final film, “Mom” (2017), marked her 300th role and earned her a posthumous
National Film Award for Best Actress. [4] [1]
Sridevi’s sudden passing in 2018 in Dubai shocked India and the film world, bringing an
outpouring of grief and tributes from fans and celebrities alike. Her legacy remains as a true
trailblazer: a performer who redefined stardom, inspired generations, and left behind an
unparalleled cinematic heritage. [4] [1]
Sridevi’s journey was remarkable for its breadth and impact—spanning languages, genres, and
generations. Her artistry, resilience, and enduring appeal ensure her place as one of the greatest
stars in Indian film history. [5] [1] [4]
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1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sridevi
2. https://starsunfolded.com/sridevi/
3. https://aptinfo.in/profile-and-life-history-of-sridevi/
4. https://vocal.media/geeks/sridevi-family-biography
5. https://www.iloveindia.com/indian-heroes/sridevi.html
6. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0004437/bio/
7. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ff6xIQ7EN04
8. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sridevi_Vijaykumar
