Patil, Smita (1955–1986)

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Patil, Smita (1955–1986)

Indian actress. Name variations: sometimes credited as Smita. Born 1955 in Poona, India; died from complications in childbirth, Dec 13, 1986; children: (with Raj Babbar) Smit Prateek (b. 1986).

One of the finest actresses of her generation, began career acting with a theater group in Poona; worked as tv newscaster in Bombay; at 17, cast in Shyam Benegal's Charandos Chor and Nishaant (both 1975), became an instant star of the New Indian Cinema; appeared in over 70 films, including Bhumika (1977) and Chakra (1981), for which she won National Best Actress awards, Namak Halaal (1982), Shakti (1982), Mandi (1983), Ardh Satya (1983), Raowan (1984), Mirch Masala (1985), Amrit (1986) and Dilwala (1986). Awarded the Padmashri from the president of India (1985).