Mumbai, 4 June 2023- Sulochana Latkar, a veteran actress of Hindi and Marathi cinema, passed away on June 4, 2023, at the age of 94. She was suffering from respiratory problems and other age-related complications. She was admitted to Sushrusha Hospital in Mumbai, where she breathed her last.
Sulochana Latkar: A Versatile Actress
Sulochana Latkar was born on July 30, 1928, in Khadaklat village of Chikodi taluka, Belgaum district in Karnataka. She started her acting career in Marathi theatre and later moved to films. She made her debut in the Marathi film Chimukla Sansar in 1952 and went on to act in more than 250 Marathi films. Some of her notable Marathi films are Sangtye Aika, Sadhi Manse, Pinjra, and Ek Gaon Bara Bhangadi.
She also acted in more than 50 Hindi films, mostly playing the role of a mother to leading actors like Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Rajesh Khanna, Jeetendra, and Shashi Kapoor. She was known for her warm and affectionate portrayal of motherly characters. Some of her popular Hindi films are Shree 420, Nagin, Ab Dilli Dur Nahin, Sujata, Aaye Din Bahar Ke, Dil Deke Dekho, Aasha, Majboor, Nai Roshni, Aayi Milan Ki Bela, Gora Aur Kala, Devar, Bandini, and many more.
She was awarded the Padma Shri in 1999 and the Maharashtra Bhushan Award in 2009 for her contribution to Indian cinema. She was also honored with several other awards and accolades from various film associations and cultural organizations.
A Loving Mother
Sulochana Latkar was married to Laxmikant Kudalkar, a musician and composer. They had three children: Kanchan Ghanekar, a Marathi actress; Anand Kudalkar, a music director; and Ashok Kudalkar, a sound engineer. She was also a grandmother to six grandchildren and a great-grandmother to four great-grandchildren.
She was very close to her family and always supported them in their endeavors. She was also fond of cooking and gardening. She celebrated her 94th birthday on July 30, 2022, with her family and friends.
Sulochana Latkar: A Legend Remembered
Sulochana Latkar’s demise has left a void in the Indian film industry and among her fans. Many celebrities and politicians have expressed their condolences and paid tribute to her on social media. Amitabh Bachchan, who played her son in several films, wrote on Twitter: “T 3945 – Sulochana ji .. Mother to so many stars of Hindi cinema .. passes away .. my Mother in so many films .. sad .. condolences .. prayers ..” Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray also tweeted: “Saddened by the demise of veteran actress Sulochana Latkar ji. She will always be remembered for her versatile roles in Marathi and Hindi cinema. My heartfelt condolences to her family and fans.”
Sulochana Latkar’s funeral will take place on June 5 at Dadar cremation grounds. She will be cremated with full state honors as per the government’s protocol.
Sulochana Latkar was a legend who left behind a legacy of memorable performances and a rich cultural heritage. She will be missed by millions of her admirers and will live on in their hearts forever.
