On her first death anniversary, we rewind to some of the most iconic tracks of the legendary actress
On February 24, 2018, the film industry and audience mourned the tragic death of India’s first female superstar — Sridevi. The actress, who reigned at the box office and won the hearts of millions of people across the globe, went on to reinvent herself when she returned post a hiatus, which she took to concentrate on her personal life. Besides her brilliant performances, her dancing skills were unparalleled. On her first death anniversary, we remember her through songs that bear testimony to her immense talent, excellent comic timing, infectious energy, grace and beauty.
1. Naino Mein Sapna, Himmatwala (1983)
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Dressed in Amrapali-style outfits and sporting chunky jewellery, Sridevi danced her heart out amidst painted pots placed on a beach. She managed to look graceful and ethereal. Watch this one for her expressions and her ability to not just pull off any move, but also make it seem like a cakewalk.
2. Main Teri Dushman, Dushman Tu Mera, Nagina (1986)
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Who can forget Sridevi’s turn as an ichhadhaari naagin! Dressed in a white ghagra choli and blue lenses, the actress, who was out to seek revenge, convinced the audience that a snake could dance. This song continues to be a favourite with fans who may find it hard to do the serpent dance as gracefully as the talented actress.
3. Har Kisi Ko Nahi Milta, Janbaaz (1986)
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Clad in a red sari, Sridevi croons about a few being lucky in love here. The foot-tapping number has been recreated since, but the original track remains unmatched. The lyrics, the lilting melody and Sridevi in a red sari make this track unforgettable.
4. Hawa Hawai and Kaate Nahin Kat Te, Mr India (1987)
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Mr India had a great soundtrack, but Hawa Hawai and Kaate Nahin Kat Te stood out. When the actress lip-synced the words, “Bijli giraane main hoon aayee”, you couldn’t help but agree with her. From the golden ensemble complete with a bizarre headpiece, she shimmied away emoting a zillion expressions. The audience was transfixed by her beauty. In Kaate Nahin Kat Te, she oozed sensuality on the big screen. She is so alluring in the number, you forget that she is dancing all alone.
5. Na Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai, ChaalBaaz (1989)
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Bringing spunk, attitude and fun to a foot-tapping number was her forte. Dressed in a white top, white hat, blue jeans and transparent windcheater, Sridevi proved that it wasn’t just desi dance moves that she could rock. A self-confessed Michael Jackson fan, her steps in this seemed a bit influenced by his dancing style.
6. Navrai Majhi, English Vinglish (2012)
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After a 15-year hiatus, Sridevi returned to the big screen with English Vinglish. She shook a leg to Navrai Majhi, a song that continues to be a favourite at Indian weddings. But it’s not just about dance here, her mature expressions and graceful demeanour clearly pointed to her transition as a performer, one who is missed by the audience.
