Suchitra Sen

Suchitra Sen (6 April 1931 – 17 January 2014) was an Indian actress who worked in Bengali and Hindi cinema. Often referred to as the "Mahanayika" (Great Actress), she is regarded as one of the greatest actresses in the history of Indian cinema. She won numerous awards, including the National Film Award for Best Actress twice, and a record four BFJA Awards for Best Actress in a Leading Role (Hindi).

Sen made her film debut in the Bengali film Shesh Kothay (1952), and went on to star in several successful Bengali films, including Sharey Chuattor (1953), Devdas (1955), Jalsaghar (1958), and Saat Pake Bandha (1963). She made her Hindi film debut in Bimal Roy's Devdas (1955), which was a major commercial success. She went on to star in several successful Hindi films, including Aandhiyan (1952), Sejuti (1956), Musafir (1957), and Choti Bahu (1959).

Sen is best known for her performances in the films Saptapadi (1961), Saat Pake Bandha (1963), and Utsarg (1966). In Saptapadi, she played the role of an unwed mother who is ostracized by society. In Saat Pake Bandha, she played the role of a woman who is forced to choose between her love and her family. In Utsarg, she played the role of a woman who sacrifices her own happiness for the sake of her family.

Sen retired from acting in 1978, after appearing in over 60 films. She died in Kolkata on 17 January 2014, at the age of 82.

Sen was a versatile actress who was known for her natural acting style and her ability to portray a wide range of characters. She was also a gifted dancer and singer. She was a major influence on many Indian actresses, including Sharmila Tagore, Jaya Bachchan, and Rekha.

In 2013, Sen was honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest honor in Indian cinema. She was also posthumously awarded the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian award in India.