Had she been alive today, Sridevi, Bollywood’s first female superstar, would have been celebrating her 61st birthday. Known for her unparalleled talent and charisma, Sridevi carved a niche in the Hindi film industry that remains unmatched. Among her peers, one name stands out as her toughest competitor: Jaya Prada. The rivalry between these two leading ladies was so intense that they famously didn’t speak to each other for nearly 25 years.
A Competitive Era in Bollywood
In a candid revelation on “Indian Idol 12,” Jaya Prada shared insights into her professional relationship with Sridevi. Despite their on-screen chemistry in films like “Aakhri Raasta” and “Aulaad,” Jaya confessed that there was no off-screen camaraderie. The competition between them was palpable, manifesting in everything from their costumes to their dance performances.
The Attempt to Mend Fences
Jaya recalled a particularly memorable incident during the shooting of the film “Maqsad.” Veteran actors Rajesh Khanna and Jeetendra, sensing the tension between the two actresses, decided to lock them in a room, hoping they would finally break the ice. However, even after an hour in close quarters, neither Sridevi nor Jaya uttered a word to the other. Jaya reflected on this, saying, “Our chemistry never matched. Despite playing perfect sisters on screen, we never made eye contact.”
The Turning Point
The longstanding cold war between the two iconic actresses eventually ended at Jaya Prada’s son’s wedding reception. This event marked a turning point in their relationship, with both actresses embracing each other and putting their past differences aside. The rift, which reportedly began when Jaya was cast in the film “Nagina” instead of Sridevi, had become a well-known narrative in Bollywood circles. “Nagina” turned out to be a massive hit, further fueling the rivalry between the two.
Jaya’s Reflections on Sridevi’s Passing
Sridevi’s sudden demise in 2018 left the entire film industry in shock. She passed away in Dubai, where she had gone to attend a family wedding, and her death was attributed to accidental drowning in a bathtub. Reflecting on her passing, Jaya Prada expressed her sorrow, saying, “When I heard the news of her passing, it was a painful moment for me. I miss her a lot because I feel lonely. If she is listening to me somewhere, I wish we could have talked to each other.”
Sridevi’s Lasting Legacy
Sridevi’s contribution to Indian cinema is immense. She was last seen in a cameo role in Shah Rukh Khan’s film “Zero.” Her performances have left an indelible mark on the hearts of her fans and the industry. As we remember her today, her journey from a child artist to Bollywood’s first female superstar serves as an inspiration to many.
