'Navrang' actor Sandhya Shantaram, V Shantaram's wife, dies at 87
What's the story
Veteran actor Sandhya Shantaram, who starred in the iconic song Arre Ja Re Hatt Natkhat, has passed away at 87. Shantaram was recognized for her grace, courage, and memorable performances in films such as Pinjra and Navrang. Her last rites were held on Saturday at Vaikunth Dham in Shivaji Park. While the cause of her death hasn't been revealed yet, a source told India Today that she passed away due to health-related issues.
Condolences
BJP leader Ashish Shelar mourns her death
BJP leader Ashish Shelar confirmed the news of her demise on social media, expressing his grief. He wrote, "The news of the passing of Sandhya Shantaram ji, the renowned actress from the film Pinjra, is extremely heartbreaking." "In the Marathi and Hindi film industries, she left a distinct impression on the audience's minds with her unparalleled acting and dance skills."
Twitter Post
See the tribute here
भावपूर्ण श्रद्धांजली !
— Adv. Ashish Shelar - ॲड. आशिष शेलार (@ShelarAshish) October 4, 2025
‘पिंजरा’ चित्रपटातील प्रसिद्ध अभिनेत्री संध्या शांताराम जी यांच्या निधनाची बातमी अत्यंत दुःखद आहे.
मराठी व हिंदी चित्रपटसृष्टीत त्यांनी आपल्या अप्रतिम अभिनय आणि नृत्यकौशल्याने प्रेक्षकांच्या मानावर एक वेगळी छाप पाडली. ‘झनक झनक पायल बाजे’, ‘दो आंखें बारह… pic.twitter.com/Gsdq5KuXP9
Iconic role
Her iconic performance in 'Navrang'
One of the shining moments of Shantaram's career came with the song Arre Ja Re Hatt Natkhat from her husband, V. Shantaram's directorial Navrang (1959). Interestingly, she learned classical dance for that song. Reportedly, there was no choreographer; she and the director created the steps. To make it grand, real elephants and horses were brought on set, and she danced with them without a stunt double or tricks.
Personal life
More about her life and career
The director was already married to Jayashree when he fell in love with Shantaram while working together on the set of Navrang. After their marriage, Shantaram became his muse and they collaborated on iconic Indian movies such as Amar Bhoopali, Navrang, Pinjra, Do Aankhen Barah Haath, and Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje. May she rest in peace.