A celebrated actress, known for her exceptional dancing skills and performances alongside cinematic giants like Rajinikanth and Dharmendra, is currently facing a challenging battle with memory loss. The veteran actress, who dominated the South Indian film industry and also made her mark in Bollywood, has stepped away from acting due to this debilitating condition.
The actress began her career in 1983 with 'Mella Pesungal' and quickly rose to prominence, captivating audiences with her expressive eyes and rhythmic movements. Her talent for Kuchipudi classical dance further solidified her position in the industry. She went on to star in over 150 films, showcasing her versatility and leaving a lasting impression in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Hindi cinema. Some of her notable Bollywood ventures include films with Vinod Khanna, Mithun Chakraborty, and others.
In addition to her work in South Indian cinema, where she starred opposite leading actors like Mohanlal, Mammootty and Rajinikanth, she also acted in Hindi movies such as 'Dosti Dushmani', 'Khudgarz', 'Insaf Ki Pukar', and 'Garibon Ka Daata'. Her performance in Mani Ratnam's 'Thalapathi' alongside Rajinikanth remains a career highlight.
However, in recent years, the actress has been grappling with significant memory loss, which has impacted her daily life and interests. This unfortunate chapter began affecting her ability to remember things she had learned, leading to a decline in her interest in dancing, a passion she had cultivated since childhood. "I have not been feeling well these days. I suffer bouts of memory loss. I forget things that I have learned. I am no longer interested in dancing. I don't practice dance even at home," she stated in an interview two years ago.
The challenges posed by memory loss even affected her performances. During the shooting of 'Sila Nerangalil Sila Manidhargal' (2022), she experienced difficulty remembering her dialogues. Her last appearance was in the movie 'Ayalaan' (2024).
Despite these health challenges, the actress has expressed a desire to return to cinema, seeking meaningful and non-stereotypical roles. She hopes for a dignified exit from the industry, emphasizing her wish to contribute in a way that respects her legacy.
The actress's story echoes that of other performers who have faced health challenges, such as Selma Blair, who had to leave "Dancing with the Stars" due to multiple sclerosis. Blair's openness about her condition and her determination to continue dancing inspired many, raising awareness about chronic illnesses.
As the actress navigates her health challenges, her fans and the film fraternity remember her for her immense talent, captivating performances, and contribution to Indian cinema. Her journey serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of artists who continue to pursue their passion in the face of adversity.
