Shabana Azmi and Smita Patil were two prominent Bollywood actresses who came into the spotlight during the rise of parallel cinema during the 80s and 90s. Both the actresses were shaped into leading ladies by filmmaker, Shyam Bengal and their powerful roles in the male dominated era of showbiz helped them create a separate place in the hearts of fans. They shared the screen space multiple times during their career, but behind the camera, rumours were rife about the rivalry between the two talented divas. In a recent interview, Shabana Azmi opened up about how she has developed a closer bond with her family.
Shabana Azmi reveals she regrets saying certain things about Smita Patil
Shabana Azmi and Smita Patil’s conflicts made headlines in the ’80s, which came to a halt after Smita Patil’s demise on December 13, 1986. Her sudden demise due to childbirth complications at the age of 31 left everyone in shock, including Shabana, who felt a deep sense of regret over their sour bond. In a new interview with Filmfare, Shabana Azmi admitted that they shared a broken bond, which never got mended during Smita’s lifetime. However, the latter’s parents were always cordial with Shabana, and after her demise, she became like a daughter to them. In her words:
“What was broken was never repaired. But her parents were nice to me, and my parents were nice to her. In a strange way, after she passed away, I sort of became a surrogate Smita to her parents. Which baffled me, but it completed the circle. So, I regret that I said uncharitable things about Smita. I really regret it. I wish I hadn’t done it.”
